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OF THE TOUR OF. , 

GENERAL LAFAYETTE, 

ON HIS LATE VISIT TO THE UNITED STATES, 1324 . . ' ■ 

COMPRISING THE ADDRESSES OP THE 

TOWN AND CITY AUTHORITIES, 

WITH THE ANSWERS OF THE GENERAL C 

ANNEXED TO WHICH, ARE 

aJiosrajmccal jtotfcce of fife ECfe i 

TOGETHER WITH SOME OF THE MOST APPROVED 

SPECIMENS OP POETRY, 

ADDRESSED TO HIM ON HIS ARRIVAL, 

BY JOHNFOSTER: 



Sit mihi fas audita loqui. 

Par»H tf V ?■'"'' P acis 1™ importer* morerr 

farcere subject,*, tt defoliate superbos.-v lRfi , ' ^r-^-r: 




PORTLAND : 

^I-VTED AT THE STATESMAN OFF ICE , BT A. W. THAYER, 



1324. 






District f.-Vuiiit,ss. 

^ ::.::::.:x:g BE IT REMEMBERED, That on this seventeenth ilay of Septem- 
:■: j • s 13 ber, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and 

:•■ twenty four, and the forty ninth year of the independence of 

fj •::>:: :;:•:© th e United States of America, Mi. JOHN FOSTER, of the Dis- 
trict of Maine, has deposited m this office the title of a hook, the right whereof 
he claims as Author, in the words following, viz. : 

•• A sketch of the Tour of General Lafayette, on his late visit to the United 
States, 1824: comprising the addresses of the town and city Authorities, with 
the answers of the General : — annexed to which, are Biographical notices of 
his Life :— together with some of the most approved specimens of Poetry, ad 
dressed to him on his arrival. — By JOHN FOSTER. Sit mihi fas audita loqui. 
— ll.v tibi erunt artea j pacisque imponere morem, Parcere suhjectis, et debel- 
'are j 'perbos. — Virgil. 

In conformity to the Act of the Congress of the United States, entitled " An 
/Let for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts 
ud books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times 
i herein mentioned j" and also to an act, entitled, M An Act supplementary to 
an act entitled an act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the 
copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such 
copies, during the times therein mentioned, and extending the benefits thereof 
to the arts of designing, engraving, and etching historical and other prints." 
JOHN MUSSEY, Cferifc if the District Court of Maine, 
A true copy as of Record, 

Attest, J. MUSSEY, Clerk I). C. Maine. 









PREFACE. 

The following history of the Tour of General Lafay- 
ette, is principally compiled from the most authentick 
records which came within the author's reach. 

It is possible that many circumstances may have oc- 
curred, which are not minutely detailed in this volume, 
but it is believed, no essential errors will be discovered; 
and that in general, it will be found correct. 

The principal object the author had in view, in sub- 
mitting this volume to the public, was, that the transac- 
tions, which occurred relative to the illustrious charac- 
ter, who forms the subject of the work, might be treas- 
ured up in a more durable form than they otherwise 
would be ; that posterity may teach their children to 
lisp the name of Lafayette with affection and rever- 
ence ; that gratitude may glow in their bosoms, when 
are rehearsed to them the " noble deeds,*' of that 
friend to our country, to liberty, and to the rights of 
man ! — for the name of Lafayette must ever be asso- 
ciated with all that is great, and good, and glorious, in 
the human character. 

With these hw prefatory remarks, the volume is 
respectfully submitted to the consideration of a candid 
public. 

Portland, September 2, 1 8 4. 



Sttctcli of tltc ILtfe of 
GENERAL LAFAYETTE." 



The following sketch of the life of Lafayette embra- 
ces only that period in which he so successfully com- 
bat ted, and counteracted the designs of an invading foe. 
In connexion with this article will be found, a sketch of 
his character, by Lady Morgan, selected and abridged 
from her memoir of the General. 

By a perusal of the following sketches, every lover of 
his country, every friend to liberty and the rights of man, 
cannot but feel the spirit of grateful admiration burning 
in his bosom, and hail him as the benefactor of nations. 
They will see, (as an elegant writerf has finely expres- 
sed it,) a man who has gone through good report and 
evil report — one who has sounded all the depths and 
shoals of honor — who has passed from every enjoynieni 
titles and wealth could give, to penury and a dungeon. 
He has lived in a wonderful age. His career began as a 
friend to freedom in this country, and after having wit- 
nessed the success of our struggle, he attempted lo 
teach his own countrymen something of the lesson he 
had learned ; but the moral and natural elements were 
not the same ; — no mortal man could ride the whirl- 

* It has of late been made a question, whether this distinguished person 
still retains the title of Marquis. On this point we have no more correct in- 
formation than is found in his answer, as made in the court of Assizes in Paris, 
on the 7th of February last, (1824) when called as a witness. 

" Before I retire," said the General, '« I wish to make one observation.— In 
the instrument in which I am called as a witness, they give me the title of 
»*fa"<7Ki«,whicri I have censed to retain, since the decree by the Constitutionai 
.Assembly, of December, 1790." 

| S. L. Knapp, Esq. 



O LAFAYETTE S LIFE. 

wind, and direct the storm, after it was raised in France. 
The wrath of contending principles was too great for 
his agency, and it was well that all the good and great 
were not swept away in it. The life of this good man 
has been marked by rapid vicissitudes and strange 
events. This last scene is in keeping with the former. — 
He has passed from the strict scrutiny, and pitiful suspi- 
cion of a despotic police, to the arms of a free and grate- 
ful people, who have met him in a phrenzy of gratitude. 
His triumph is more splendid and honorable than any 
that was ever given before to a benefactor of mankind. 
The triumphal cars of the Roman conquerors were 
drawn by royal captives, and their degradation swelled 
the victors' consequence. The car of Lafayette will be 
drawn, not through a single city, but through an immense 
continent, by a band of high-minded freemen ; and their 
elevation makes his triumph more glorious ! The for- 
mer was an offering from pride to ambition ; but this 
comes from respect and gratitude. 

" The name and character of this illustrious French 
nobleman* will occupy a conspicuous place in our revolu- 
tionary annals, and be honored by posterity no less for 
his enthusiastic love of liberty, than for his heroism and 
military renown. There is something truly romantic in 
the history of this celebrated personage. In the year 
1776, at the immature age of nineteen, he espoused the 
cause of the Americans, and nobly resolved to afford our 
country all possible assistance by his personal services 
and iniluence. — At this era, the affairs of America were 
bordering on despair, and were represented in France as 
so deplorable that it might be supposed sufficient to sup- 

* La Fayette was born at Auvergne, in France, on the 6th of September 
1757, and is now 67 years of age. — Auvergne, before the revolution, was a 
province of France, bounded east by Torez — south by Rouergue and Gevan- 
dan ; — west by Limoges and Marche ; — and north by Bourbonois : — about 120 
miles long, and 90 broad ; — it was usually divided into upper and lower : — 
the climate of the latter is very temperate — but the former is very cold. The 
clouds hanging on the mountains the greater part of the year. Clrrmont is 
the capital town. It now forms the two departments of Cantal Puy-de Dome, 
•~The population is about 200,000.— JVorces. Gaz. 



LAFAYETTE 3 LIFE. * 

press the most determined zeal. Reports were propaga- 
ted in that country that our army, reduced to a mere 
rabble, was flying before an army of thirty thousand reg- 
ulars ; nor was this very wide from the reality. In con- 
sequence of this, our commissioners found it impossible to 
procure a vessel to convey the Marquis, and their own 
despatches to Congress ; they could not, therefore, feel 
justified in encouraging his bold contemplated enter- 
prize. This embarrassment, however, had the effect of 
increasing, rather than of restraining, his youthful ardor 
and heroism. He imparted to the commissioners his de- 
termination to purchase and fit out a vessel to convey 
himself and their despatches to America. This project 
was deemed so extraordinary and important, that it did 
not fail to engage universal attention. The French 
court had not even declared a friendly intention towards 
America ; but, on the contrary, were extremely cautious 
of giving offence to the British government. Orders 
were therefore given, prohibiting the departure of this 
nobleman, and vessels were even despatched to the 
West Indies to intercept him, in case he should take that 
route. The Marquis was apprized that he exposed him- 
self to the loss of his fortune by the laws of France ; and 
that, should he fall into the hands of the English, on his 
passage, he would be liable to a confinement of uncertain 
duratiou, and without a prospect of being exchanged. — 
These considerations, however, did not deter him from 
the attempt, and bidding adieu to his amiable consort, 
and numerous endeared connexions, and trusting to good 
fortune to favor his elopement, he embarked, and in due 
time arrived safe in Charleston, in the summer of 1776. 
He landed soon after the noble defence made by Gene- 
ral Moultrie, at the fort on Sullivan's Island. Charmed 
with the gallantry displayed by that General and his 
brave troops, the Marquis presented him with clothing, 
arms, and equipments for one hundred men. He met 
with a strong reception from our Congress, and they im- 
mediately^ accepted his proffered services. He insisted 



8 Lafayette's life. 

that he would receive no compensation, and that he 
would commence his services as a volunteer. This no- 
ble philanthropist was received into the family of the 
Commander in Chief, where a strong mutual attachment 
was contracted, and he has often been called the adopted 
son of Washington. 

July 31st, 1777, Congress resolved, that " Whereas 
the Marquis dc la Fayette out of his great zeal to the 
cause of liberty in which the United States are engaged, 
has left his family and connexions, and at his own ex- 
pense come over to offer his services to the United 
States, without pension or particular allowance, and is 
anxious to risk his life in our cause — Resolved, that his 
services be accepted, and that in consideration of his zeal, 
illustrious family and connexions, he have the rank and 
commission of major General in the army of the United 
States." 

At the battle of Brandy wine, Sept. 1777, the Marquis 
exhibited full proof of his undaunted bravery, and milita- 
ry character, and received a wound in his leg. In May, 
1778, with a select corps of two thousand five hundred 
men, he crossed the Schuylkill, and took post above 
twelve miles iu front of our army at Valley Forge. A 
quaker, in whose house he was to lodge, sent information 
to the enemy, who formed an instantaneous design of 
surprising him. Gen. Grav, on the night of trie 19th. 
May, marched with seven thousand men, and by a skilful 
movement got into the Marquis' rear, while another de- 
tachment was advancing to his front. The Marquis for- 
tunately gained intelligence of their approach, and by a 
prompt decision effected his retreat and recrosscd the 
river in season to defeat the design of the enemy. Had 
they succeeded, it must not only have proved fatal to the 
Marquis and his detachment, but placed the remainder 
of our army in a situation of extreme hazard. In Au- 
gust, 1778, the Marquis repaired to Rhode Island, to 
assist in the expedition under Major General Sullivan, 
in conjunction with the French fleet, and he received 



lafayettes life. y 

the particular approbation and applause of Congress for 
his judicious and highly important services. In January 
1779, the Marquis embarked at Boston on a voyage to 
France, and was subjectd to imminent danger from a con- 
spiracy among the sailors, a great part of whom were 
British. He returned in May, 1780^ bringing the joyful 
intelligence that a French fleet and army would soon ar- 
rive on our coast. — Through his great zeal for the cause 
of the United States, he exerted his influence with his 
government, no longer fearful of giving offence to the 
English, to afford money and troops, and other impor- 
tant succors. He was soon put at the head of a select 
corps of light infantry for the service of the campaign. 
This afforded him a new opportunity for the display of 
his munificence. He presented every officer under his 
command an elegant sword, and his soldiers were clothed 
in uniform principally at his expense. He infused into this 
corps a spirit of pride and emulation, viewing it as one 
formed and modelled according to his own wishes, and 
as deserving his highest confidence. They were the 
pride of his heart, and the idol of their regard ; 
constantly panting for an opportunity of accomplishing 
some achievement worthy of his and their character. 
This corps was pronounced equal to any that could be 
produced in any country. In December, 1780, he 
marched with one thousand two hundred light infantry 
for Virginia, to counteract the devastations of Arnold and 
Phillips. He made a forced march of two hundred 
miles, and prevented Gen. Phillips possessing himself of 
Richmond, and secured the stores of that place. At one 
period there was not a single pair of shoes in his whole 
command, and such was his zeal and generous spirit, 
and such the confidence and respect of the people, that 
he Avas enabled to borrow of the merchants of Baltimore 
two thousand guineas on his own credit, with which he 
purchased shoes and other necessary articles for his 
troops. The Marquis was employed in watching the 
motions of Lord Comwallis in Virginia, Avith an inferior 



10 Lafayette's life. 

» 
force ; in this arduous duty he displayed the judgmenf, 
skill and prudence of a veteran, with the ardor of youth. 
In a skirmish near Jamestown, not a man in the whole 
detachment was more exposed, and one of his horses 
was killed. 

Lord Cornwallis having encamped near Jamestown, 
the Marquis Lafayette sent General vv ayne, with the 
Pennsylvania troops, to take their station within a small- 
distance of the British army and watch their motions. 
The two advanced parties were soon engaged, and Gen- 
eral Wayne drove that of the enemy back to their lines, 
and, without stopping there, attacked the whole British 
army, drawn up in order of battle and charged them 
with bayonets. The action was extremely severe for the 
little time it lasted, but the disproportion of number was 
so great that the enemy was on the point of surrounding 
our troops, when the Marquis arrived in person, just 
time enough to order a retreat, by which they were res- 
cued from their hazardous situation after suifering con- 
siderable loss. 

General Henry Lee, in his memoirs of the 'war in the 
southern states, eulogizes the character and conduct of 
Lafayette, when compelled to fly before the British 
commander, in the following language. 

" In this period of gloom, of disorder*, and of peril, La- 
fayette was collected and undismayed. With zeal, with 
courage, and with sagacity, he discharged his arduous 
duties ; and throughout the difficult retreat was never 
brought even to array, but once, in order for battle. — ■ 
Invigorating our councils by his precepts ; dispelling our 
despondency by his example ; and encouraging his 
troops to submit to their many privations, by the cheer- 
fulness with which he participated in their wants ; he 
imparted the energy of his own mind to the country, and 
infused bis high toned spirit into the army." 

Great encomiums were passed on the Marquis for his 
humanity and goodness in visiting and administering to 
the relief of the wounded soldiers. Lord Cornwallis 



lafayettr's life. 1 1 

fiaving received a reinforcement, was so confident of suc- 
cess against his young antagonist, that he imprudently 
said in a letter that was intercepted, " the boy cannot es- 
cape me." He planned the surprise of the Marquis, 
while on the same side of James river with himself ; 
but in this he was baffled by means of a spy, whom the 
marquis sent into the enemy's camp to obtain some 
necessary intelligence. A combination of talents and 
skill defeated all the energies of physical power. Dur- 
ing the siege of Lord Cornwallis at York town, the Mar- 
quis was among the most active and intrepid of the 
generai officers, and he commanded a detachment of our 
light infantry, which successfully assaulted the British 
redoubt on the right of our lines. Previous to his depar- 
ture from Yorktown, he issued his last orders to his fa- 
vorite corps of infantry, in which are contained the folr 
lowing expressions. 

" In the moment the major general leaves this place, 
he wishes once more to express his gratitude to the 
brave corps of light infantry, who for nine months past, 
have been the companions of his fortunes. He will 
never forget, that with them alone, of regular troops, 
he had the good fortune to manoeuvre before an army 
Avhich, after all its reductions, is still six times superior 
to the regular force he had at that time." 

The Marquis now perceiving that the mighty contest 
for American independence, in which he had been so 
nobly engaged, was near its completion, was about to re- 
turn, with the well earned laurels on his brow to his king 
and country. Congress, resolved November 23d, 1781, 
" that Major General the Marquis de la Fayette be in- 
formed that on a review of his conduct throughout the 
past campaign, and particularly during the period in 
which he had the chief command in Virginia, the many 
new proofs which present themselves of his .zealous at- 
tachment to the cause he has espoused, and of his judg- 
ment, vigilance, gallantry, and address in its defence, 
have greatly added to the high opinion entertained bv 



12 Lafayette's life. 

Congress of his merit and military talents.'" During his 
military career in America, the Marquis displayed that 
patriotism, integrity, humanity, and every other virtue 
which characterizes Teal greatness of soul. His man- 
ners being easy, affable, and engaging, he was particu- 
larly endeared to the officers and soldiers under his 
command ; they admired, loved, and revered him as 
their guide and support when in peril, and their warm- 
est friend when in perplexity and trouble. The most 
affectionate attachment existed between him and the 
illustrious chief under whose banners it was his delight 
to serve, and whose language was, " this nobleman 
unites to all the military lire of youth, an uncommon ma- 
turity of judgment.'" 

His very soul burned with the spirit of enterprize, 
and he manifested a disinterestedness and devotion to the 
cause of freedom, ever to be admired and applauded by a 
grateful people. He ever discovered both in design 
and execution those traits of genius, and that intuitive 
knowledge of tactics, which designate the great man 
and the successful warrior. The people of the United 
States are fully apprized of their high obligation to him, 
and their history will transmit the name of Lafayette 
with grateful acknowledgments to the latest posterity. 
It is gratifying to learn that Congress granted him a val- 
uable tract of land, as a compensation in part, for his dis- 
interested patriotism and important services. 

When in December 1784, the Marquis was about to 
take his final departure from America,Congress appointed 
a committee of one member from each state to receive 
him, and in the name of Congress to take leave of him 
in such manner as might strongly manifest their esteem 
and regard for him. That they be instructed to assure 
him, that Congress continue to entertain the same high 
sense of his abilities and zeal to promote the welfare of 
America, both here and in Europe which they have fre- 
quently expressed and manifested on former occasions. 
That the United States regard him with particular affec- 
tion, and will not cease to feel an interest in whatever 



Lafayette's life. 13 

pjay concern his honor and prosperity, and that their 
best and kindest wishes will always attend him. Con- 
gress resolved also that a letter be written to His Most 
Christian Majesty expressive of the high sense which the 
United States, in Congress assembled, entertain of the 
zeal, talents, and meritorious services of the Marquis de 
la Fayette, and recommending him to the favour and pat- 
ronage of his majesty. The Marquis made a very re- 
spectful and affectionate reply, in which he expressed 
the lively feelings of a heart devoted to the welfare of 
our rising empire, and gratefully acknowledged that at 
a time when an inexperienced youth, he was favoured 
with his respected friend's paternal adoption. He thus 
concludes his address. " May this immense temple of 
freedom ever stand as a lesson to oppressors, an example 
to the oppressed, a sanctuary for the rights of mankind ; 
and may these happy United States attain that complete 
splendor and prosperity, which will illustrate the bles- 
sings of their government, and for ages to come rejoice 
the departed souls of its founders. Never can Congress 
oblige me so much, as when they put it in my power in 
every part of the world to the latest day of my life, to 
gratify the attachment which will ever rank me among 
the most zealous and respectful servants of the United 
States."' 



MEMOIR OF LAFAYETTE. 

SELECTED AND ABRIDGED FROM LADY MORGAN'S MEMOIR. 

" The name of Lafayette has long been consecrated 
to fame ; and his existence has been so intimately' woven 
into the history of his country, that her records and her 
chronicles must have mouldered into nothing, ere his re- 
nown shall be forgotten, or the memory of his deeds have 
faded into oblivion. The recent and extraordinary events, 
which again, for the moment, forced this modern Cincin- 
riatus from his plough, to assist in councils, which had for 
their object the fate of an empire, have brought him be- 
fore the eyes of the world, in all the original splendour 



14 Lafayette's life. 

of his long tried virtue ; and have naturally refreshed 
recollections, which time might have tarnished, or policy 
discoloured or repressed. 

" The Marquis de Lafayette appeared at the French 
court, to which his rank had called him, while yet a boy. 
Too yoang to be insensible to its pleasures, but too noble 
to be tainted by its corrections, he obstinately refused a 
place, voluntarily offered to him, as the stepping stone to 
such honors as courtiers eagerly solicit. He had alrea-? 
dy, at the age of sixteen, felt and acknowledged another 
vocation. The star of political liberty was at that peri- 
od observed rising brightly in the west, and Lafayette 
was among the first who went forth from a distant land, 
to worship it. The young and illustrious pilgrim was re<- 
ceived with joyous admiration by those, whose cause he 
came to defend. The genuine French cavalier entered 
the American Army, as a simple volunteer and fought his 
way to military distinction, till his own feats obtained for 
him that rank which his modesty and pride had before 
rejected, as an unmerited gift. He was afterwards made 
Major General ; and Washington opposed his valour to 
the experience of Clinton, and to the skill of Cornwallis. 

" Having succeeded in his favourite object, on his visit 
to his native country he obtained permission to return to 
America with the grateful intelligence of the service he 
had rendered while in France. He arrived in Boston, 
and then proceeded to Congress with the information 
that His Most Christian Majesty had consented to em- 
ploy a considerable land and naval armament at the 
United States for the ensuing campaign. He was receiv- 
ed by General Washington with joy and affection, and by 
Congress with every mark of distinction and regard. — 
Some months after this, he proceeded to the South, 
where, though matters in this quarter were in a very un- 
promising aspect, by an appeal to the generous and hon- 
ourable principles of his soldiers, he prevailed upon them 
to embark in the dangerous and difficult enterprize of 
preventing the junction of the Marquis Cornwallis and 



Lafayette's ^ife. ] 9 

General Phillips, and though unsuccessful he very adroit- 
ly evaded all the schemesd' the vigilant British General, 
and secured his little array and all his stores, though the 
Marquis had said cxultingly, in a letter which was after- 
wards intercepted, " (he boy cannot escajje vie IV 

" After having received a sword from the hands ol 
Franklin, presented by the American States, he return- 
ed to France, the leader of armies, the counsellor of 
statesmen, and the friend of philosophers, at the prema- 
ture age of twenty-two ! 

"The court and the people alike came forward to re- 
ceive and welcome the young hero, who had reflected 
such credit on his country ; who united the gay, the gal- 
lant, fearless spirit of ancient chivalry, with the mod- 
ern principles of philosophical liberty. His mission to 
France, in which he was joined with Franklin, to obtain 
men and money from the Government for the promotion 
of the American cause, was eminently sussesslul. The 
court did not then foresee the result of its own mistaken 
and selfish policy. Governed by every-day expediency, 
it sought only to feed a flame which consumed the 
strength of England ; and little dreamed, that from that 
Hame a spark would proceed, which would eventually 
kindle the inflammable mass collected within its own 
bosom. 

" It was after the peace with America, that General 
Lafayette, visiting once more the land of his early and 
successful cnterprize, was received in the Congress of the 
United States with a sort of Roman triumph ; while his 
journey through the cities was one perpetuated scene of 
joy and festivity. On his return to Europe, in 1785, he 
travelled through Germany, and brought even to the 
Court of the Caesars, as he had done to the pavilions ol 
Versailles, the spirit of a pure and antique attachment 
to liberty, with the graces of a gallant soldier, and ac- 
complished gentleman : — and he was received by Joseph 
the 3d, and Frederick the great, Avith flattering distinc- 
tions. Jt was in accompanying the latter to his reviews. 



16 Lafayette's life. 

that he had an opportunity at forded him of close observa- 
tion of the military genius of that royal tactician, with 
which he doubtless enriched his own experience. 

" A restless activity, in the cause of ail that is great or 
good, united t)ic efforts of General Lafayette to those of 
Malcsherhcs, for the amelioration of the condition of the 
French protestants ; and at the same time he devoted 
his power and fortune to the gradual redemption of the 
blacks. While the Court of Versailles protected the 
Barbary corsairs, he opposed the measure at home, and 
assisted Jefferson in his league against that piratical band, 
so long the shame and scourge of Europe; — Called to 
the Assembly of the Notables, iff 1787, Lafayette was 
the first to raise his voice lor the suppression of letters de 
cachet, and of State Prisons : — to obtain a favourable 
decree for the French protestants, and to propose a Na- 
tional Assembly to France. 

The part which General Lafayette took in the first 
revolution, was too conspicuous to require at the present 
day a minute detail. Actuated exclusively by the love 
of his country, his motives and conduct have, however, 
been alike calumniated by the emigrants and the jaco- 
bins ; to whose selfishness and personality his example 
and his influence were equally opposed ; and while the 
family of Louis XVI. rejected his proifered assistance, in 
distrust of his exertions m the cause of freedom, he was 
already marked out for destruction of the clubs, for his 
strenuous attachment to constitutional monarchy. 

" When the citizens of Paris, to the number of 30,000, 
enrolled themselves as the National Guard, General La- 
fayette was chosen their commander in chief ; and owing 
to this circumstance, which strongly proves the influence 
he possessed with the populace, is to be attributed the 
safety of Louis the XVI. and family, on the 6tii October 
1789, at Versailles, The rabble had rushed into the 
Court of the Palace, two of the life-guards had been 
cruelly murdered ! — they had even penetrated the apart- 
ments of the Queen, from which she had scarcely time 



Lafayette's life. 17 

to escape, when the presence of General Lafayette, and 
his officers, put a stop to further personal outrage, though 
it did not divert them from their main design of taking 
the king, queen and family to Paris. 

" When the march of the i evolution was interrupted, 
and its objects frustrated by the intrigues of faction, and 
the fury of democracy, Lafayette exposed himself steadi- 
ly to the colossal and disorganizing power of the Jaco- 
bins. But his genius and his sentiments no longer be- 
longed to that day of blood. Denounced by the Jaco- 
bins, and brought to trial by their machinations, his con- 
duct placed him above the reach of their calumnies, and 
he was acquitted. When however, the sanguinary law of 
proscription was fulminated against him, he disdained to 
degrade himself by an useless defence. Accompanied by 
his friend Maubourg and by his aid-de-camp, Alexander 
Lameth, he quitted the polluted territory of his country. 

"The object of the patriot fugitives was, to gain eith- 
er the neutral states of Holland or England — and they 
had already safely arrived beyond the frontiers of France, 
when they were taken by a corps of Austrian troops, and 
delivered over to the power of the coalition. Sent suc- 
cessively^ as prisoners of war to the fortresses of Luxem- 
bourg. Wezcl, Magdcbourg and Olmutz, their patriotism 
was punished by privations and hardships, which exceed- 
ed the rigours of inquisitorial severity. Lafayette was 
soon separated from the companions of his flight ; and 
worn out by suffering and persecution, he was dying in 
the dungeons of Wezel, when a ray of hope was offered 
to this despair by Frederick William; who proposed, as 
the purchase of his liberty, that he should furnish apian 
against France ; ungrateful France! in whose cause he 
then suffered. The energy of his reply evinced his high 
disdain of the shameless proposal. " No, never," said 
Mr. Fox speaking of this event, "never could such per- 
fidy approach that heart, which never, for one moment 
ceased to nourish the sacred fire of patriotism, the pur- 
est and most religious." At length, the moment of lib- 
3 



]i> Lafayette's life. 

oration arrived ; a liberation, for which Lafayette was 
more indebted to the good feeling of an individual, than 
to (Compatriot 'generosity or national repentance. It was 
upon his own responsibility, that Bonaparte* made the 
surrender of Lafayette, an article in the treaty which he 
dictated to Austria, at Leoben.'l' I have heard General 
Lafayette revert to the obligation he thus incurred to 
the late Emperor, with sentiments of the warmest grat- 
itude ; but in this instance, his feelings held no influence 
over a conduct invariably governed by principles. 

M Restored to his country, he remained steady to those, 
principles which had guided him through life, — which 
had led him to the deserts of America, — which had in- 
spired him in the conflicts of revolutionary France — had 
shielded linn from the corruption of Courts, and consol- 
ed him in the dung-eons of captivity. When he discover- 
ed that Ins opinions of the character and views of Bona- 
parte were ill-founded, that he who had generously unlock- 
ed his own chains, was already engaged in weaving shack- 
Jos for his country, he broke oil' all intercourse with his 
deliverer, refused the share offered to him in public af- 
fairs, declined the senatorial dignity anxiously pressed 
on his acceptance, and by his bold restrictive vote against 
the Consulship for life, snapped forever the tie, which, 
under the paramount influence of gratitude, had for a 
moment bound him to a man, whose views diilcrcd so 
widely from his own. Finn of purpose, steady, inflexi- 
ble, pursuing with the same undeviating step the lumin- 
ous path of patriotism, from which ambition had never 
seduced, nor interest misled him, he retreated from pub- 
— » — 

*oonaparte was profesedly a friend to Lafayette — but perhaps from interested 
motives. 

t'l'iif Amerir.in Government were laudably active to procure Lafayette's re- 
lease. When Washington had in vain reclaimed him or the Austrian Govern- 
ment, clandestine attempts wire made, by American agents, to procure his 
escape, which were so fat successful that they succeeded in releasing him 
from Olmutz. But the General being- wounded in the adventure, he was re- 
taken within eight leagues of his prison. It is reported, that when Madame 
Lafayette solicited the Emperor in her husband's favor, he made her this sin- 
gular answer : " J'ailei mains liees. 1 ' If this be true, there was at tin time 
but one Cabinet capable of exerting' such an influence, and a Briton would !>r 
the last to believe the damning tale. 



lafayettb's life. ID 

lie life, sheathed ;i sword, no longer to be brandished in 
the cause of freedom, and forgot, in the simple occupa- 
tions of bis farm, that he had once shared and Influen- 
ced the destinies of an empire, liefusjng inflexibly to 
bow before the sun of imperial power, he accepted his 
retraite de general, and gave himself up exclusively to the 
endearments of domestic life, the pursuits of literature 
and science, and the interest and improvements of agri- 
culture. 

"General Lafayette had early in life, sacrificed a large 
part of his fortune to the popular cause ; — and it was in 
the name of that cause, he was deprived of nearly all that 
his prodigality had permitted him to reserve. He had 
refused emoluments and restitutions in the two hemis- 
pheres, but the territories of the Duchess de Noailles, 
who was guillotined by Robespierre, were restored to 
her son-in-law, which placed him, on his return to France, 
at the head of a property at least competent to his desires. 

^ General Lafayette had married a daughter of the il- 
lustrious house of Noailles; and the history of female 
virtue and female heroism presented nothing more rare 
in excellence, than the life and character of JVJ ado me La- 
fayette. — Such characters, (says C'harles Fqx, speaking of 
this admirable pair,) should flourish in the, annuls of (he, 
world, and live to posterity, when kings and tha crowns ihcij 
wear mttst have mouldered into dust. While Lafayette, 
rescued by flight from the scaffold in France, lay inc 
ccratcd in the dungeons of Olmutz, his devoted wife, ac- 
companied by her two daughters, with a constitution al- 
ready broken down by suffering and grief, hastened to 
Vienna, and solicited permission to entomb herself, and 
her children in the dungeon of her husband. This was 
all that was asked, and all that was obtained. 

"On the return of Napoleon from Elba, be deputed his 
brother Joseph to solicit Lafayette's acceptance of the 
peerage. "Should i ever again appear on the scene of 
public life, replied Lafayette to the ex-king of Spain, 
"it can only be as a representative of the people/' 



20 Lafayette's life. 

He was accordingly elected, by his own department, a 
member of the co?ys legislatif and as lie himself express- 
ed it, in the chamber of deputies, u a veteran in the cause 
of liberty, a stranger to the spirit of faction ;" he exhibit- 
ed in 1810 to his country, a bright untarnished model of 
the true, pure, incorruptible constitutionalists of 1789 ; — 
whose views for the liberty and happiness of their coun- 
try had been successively and cileetuaily frustrated, by 
the sordid selfishness of antiquated privilege, by the fac- 
tious intrigues of sanguinary democracy, and by the as- 
piring views of bold, boundless, and despotic ambition. 

"At tie expiration of thirty years, Lafayette appear- 
ed before his country, with the same immutability of 
principle, the same energy of spirit and force of elo- 
quence, as was possessed hy him, to whom America rais- 
ed statues, ere manhood had shed its down upon his 
cheek ! — to whom the military spirit of France devoted 
a sword of victory, formed out of the dungeon bars oi' 
the Bastille, whick he had broken ! 

" We naturally expect to find strong traces of time in 
the form of those, with whose name and deeds we have 
been long acquainted ; of those who had obtained the 
suffrages of the world, almost before we had entered it. 
But, on the person of Lafayette, time has left no impres- 
sion; not a wrinkle furrows the ample brow ; and his 
unbent and noble figure, is still as upright, bold and vig- 
orous, as the mind that informs it. Grace, strength, and 
dignity still distinguishes the fine person of this extraor- 
dinary man ; who, though more than forty years before 
the world, engaged in scenes oi strange and eventful con- 
flict, does not yet appear to have reached his climacte- 
ric. Bustling and active in his form, grace and elegant 
in his saton, it is difficult to trace, in one of the most suc- 
cessful agriculturists, and ore of the most perfect tine 
gentleman that France has produced, a warrior and ;i 
legislator. — The patriot, however, is always discernible. 

In the full possession of every faculty and talent he 
ever possessed, the memory of M. Lafayette has all the 



lapatette's life. 21 

tenacity of unworn youthful recollection ; and besides. 
those, high views of all that is most elevated in the 
mind's conception. His conversation is brilliantly en- 
riched with anecdotes of all that is celebrated, in char- 
acter and event, for the last fifty years.J He still talks 
with unwearied delight of his short visit to England, to 
his friend Mr. Fox, and dwelt on the ivitchcry of the 
late Duchess of Devonshire, with almost boyish enthusi- 
asm. He speaks and writes English with the same 
elegance he does his native tongue. He has made him- 
self master of nil that is best worth knowing in English 
literature and philosophy. I observed that his library 
contained many of our most eminent authors on all sub- 
jects. His elegant and well chosen collection of books, 
occupies the highest apartment in one of the towers of 
the chateau ; and, like the study of Montague, hangs 
over the farm yard of the philosophical agriculturalist. — 
" It frequently happens," said JV1. Lafayette, as we 
w re moving beneath, "it frcqueutly happens that my 
JVJei inos, and my Hay-carts, dispute my attention with 
your Hume, or our own Voltaire.^ 

| • umerous little anecdotes of General Lafayette have appeared in late pa- 
pers, but we do not re ollect seeing the following. It illustrates so well his 
conai queue? in his own country in former days, it may be worth publishing at 
i\\f. present time. 

On the 19th of May, 1790, " an unfortunate man was detected in the act of 
stealing a sack of oats. Some of the soldiers of the national guard took him 
immediately under their protection, and were conveying him as a prisoner to 
the Chatelet ; hut the populace, who were in the habit of inflicting summary 
justice, tore him from the soldiers, and were in the act of beating him to death 
with their clubs, when the Marquis de Lafayette happened to pass by the hor, 
rid scene. He plunged instantly into the thickest of the mob, and in despite 
of 1 neir out cries and menaces, seized the pei'9011 who had begun the tumult, 
and conducted him with his own hands to the Chatelet * He next delivered 
the unfortunate criminal from the mob ; and, exhorting them to disperse, 
and conduct themselves like orderly citizens, had the happiness to see the 
tumult entirely suppressed, and the people return to their houses, full of the 
praises of tne man who hud so intrepidly rescued them from their own phreu- 
sy, ,m<\ prevented them from contaminating themselves with human blood." 

*The court of Justice. 

i Lafayette received the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws at Harvard Uni- 
versity, in 1784, when he made his last tour in the United States ; he received 
the same honor from Princeton College. He is also a member of the American 
Academy of Arts and Sciences, and likewise of the American Philosophic? 
Society. 



22 Lafayette's life. 

" He was Dot a desperate adventurer, whose embar- 
rassed affairs at home deprived him of the means of en- 
joying life, and therefore was willing to risk all under a 
selfish hope of bettering his own private condition. He 
was born to a princely fortune. He was surrounded by 
relatives and friends, and had been blessed even thus 
early in life with conjugal love. He bid adieu to his na- 
tive land, to relatives and friends, and to the tender and 
interesting partner of his bosom ; to all the pleasures 
and amusements which were presented to him in the 
il gay regions and vine-covered hills of France," to join 
in the glorious contest for liberty in the colonies of Amer- 
ica. He offered us his money and his blood to aid us. — 
He expended at one time $10,000 for clothing our naked 
and suffering troops.* 

44 He served without compensation." 

«» 

The foregoing memoirs of Lafayette contain only 
some of the principal events of his life. To many rea- 
ders the following incidents in his career of glory may bo 
perused with satisfaction. 

They are transcribed, and abridged from the Biogra- 
phic des Hommcs Vivants. — The work is not one re- 
markable for its partiality to men of liberal principles, 
yet the article is, we think, the most satisfactory of any 
biographical notice of him we have seen. The parts of 
the article which we have not translated, are in general 
the reflections of the author, which are not very materi- 
al, and arc omitted merely to shorten the article. 

" Marie-Paul-Joseph-Rgch-Yves-Gilbert-Mottiers de 
Lafayette, was born in Auvergne, September 6th, S757, 
of one of the most ancient families of that province. — 
He married in 1774 Mademoiselle de Noailles, daughter 
of the Duke d'Ayen, Captain of the body guard. At 
that time he was in possession of a considerable fortune. 

*At a fire, which happened in Boston on the 24th of April 1784, which 
consumed one hundred building's — among which was the meeting house in 
Mollis Street, the Geuerai gave tor the relief of the sufferers 1554 dollars. 



Lafayette's life. 23 

Before the intention which had been formed by Louis 
XVI. to assist the Americans, was known, Lafayette 
privately equipped a vessel, which was filled with arms, 
and escaping the vigilance which watched him, sailed to 
America. There he served, first merely as a volunteer 
in the revolutionary army, without any design except 
that of gaining distinction as a soldier. Rochambeau, 
who was despatched to that country at the head of a 
body of French auxiliaries, having observed his courage 
and activity, gave him the command of a corps of volun- 
teers, who joining themselves to the inhabitants, contri- 
buted much to the success of the American revolution. 

During this struggle the young Lafayette signalized 
himself in so brilliant a manner that he became the 
friend of the illustrious Washington. Independence be- 
ing established, he returned to France with the office of 
Field-Marshal, loaded with testimonials of gratitude from 
the Americans, and filled with sentiments of liberty which 
the success of that people, and their republican deliber- 
ations had given rise to in his mind. He was received 
at Paris with a sort of enthusiasm. Nothing was talked 
of but Lafayette, his glory was every where sounded, 
and his portrait was every where to be seen. At the 
convocation of the States General he was chosen deputy 
to that assembly, without opposition, by the nobility of 
Auvergne, and lie came there supported by the public 
opinion. At that time a constitution was called for on 
all sides. M. de Lafayette, who afterwards placed him- 
self in the first rank in constitutional enterprises, did not 
speak on this occasion. He continued to sit with the 
majority of the nobility in their own chamber, until the 
27th of June, when the King, alarmed by the bold- 
ness of the revolutionists, commanded that order to unite 
to the two others. Lafayette protested with the major- 
ity of his order, July 3d, 1739, against every thing which 
was done contrary to the principles of the monarchy, and 
the individual rights of the orders — -and he even de- 
manded that an act should be passed by the chamber as* 



1 1 Lafayette's life- 

well as his colleagues of the Auvergne nobility, declaring? 
that they had done all in their power to support the 
system of voting by orders. It is certain that it \v;is not 
until all those efforts had proved fruitless, that he de- 
termined to join the Actional .Assembly. As its man- 
dates were imperatives he would not take part in its de- 
liberations until he had obtained from his constituents 
new powers in which this clause was not stipulated. — 
He demanded leave of absence in order to solicit this, 
and it was not until his return that he began his revolu- 
tionary career. 

On the 1 1th of July 1789, he proposed a declaration 
bf rights, which was much applauded. It was in moving 
this declaration that he made the remark, that when ty- 
rannv is at its height, insurrection becomes (In most holy 
of duties. The sitting of July 11, drew the public at- 
tention still more upon Lafayette, and from this day 
may be dated the immense power which he acquired. — ■ 
At this period the Court was making military prepara- 
tions which seemed to announce the intention of dissolv- 
ing the Assembly by force. The evening of July 12. a 
violent insurrection broke out in the capital) which had 
for pretence tlie dismissal of M. Necker. The loth. 
Lally Tolcndnlc and Mourner passed a decree that the 
public debt was put under the guardianship of the honor 
and loyalty of the French. Lafayette obtained an ad- 
dition to this decision, that the ministers who are to be 
appointed by the king were, as well as all civil and mil- 
itary agents, responsible lor any undertaking contrary to 
the rights of the nation, and the decrees of the na- 
tional assembly. After this deliberation, which was 
had very late, the assembly continued to sit all 
night, M. Lafayette presiding over it, in the 
place of M. Le Franc-de-Pampignan, Archbishop of Vi- 
ennc. who on account of his extreme age could not fill an 
office so fatiguing. July 15th, he was chosen by the 
Conn une of Paris, Commander o\' the Parisian Militia, 
which was almost immediately alter called the National 



LAFAYF.TTK S LIFE. 



23 



drd. The young general accepted this nomination, 
and drawing liis sword, made a vow to sacrifice his life" 
to the preservation of that precious liberty the defence 
of whicn they had eritrusted to him. Every thing was 
then in trouble and Confusion ; not only those who had 
nothing to lose, but those who had much, helped to keep 
op the state of disorder. 

Notwithstanding his extreme popularity, he was not; 
able to save. Fouion, whom he had taken under his pro- 
tection. October 5, a new insurrection having broken 
out, the French Guards appeared again in the front'of 
it, and summon. 'd their general to load (hem to Versailles, 
not to ask for bread, like the wonleti by whom they 
wore surrounded, but to revenge themselves, as thej 
said, for the insults which had been offered to ihc cock- 
ade and to the national colors. M. Lafayette endeavor- 
ed in vain to turn thorn from their project. He repaired 
to the square, hioUnted his horse, placed himself at their 
head and harangued them, but without sucdefts. Cries oi" 
to VehHltteS) to vitsailles, interrupted him, he could not 
make himself heard. At last he told them that being 
only head of the armed force, he could not act without 
orders from the representatives of the Commune. The 
latter immediately sent an order for him to gO to Ver- 
sailles. The populace no sooner learned this decision 
than they set Forward, and began the disorders at Ver- 
sailles before the national guard could be rc-asscmbled. 
This body arrived about eleven in the evening, command- 
ed by Lafayette, who ordered all the posts to be occupi- 
ed. Thinking there was nothing to fear, he went to 
take some repose, having assured the king and queen 
that tranquillity was restored. But at six in the morn- 
ing, the castle was attacked by the mob, who had intro- 
duced themselves through the gardens. Three body 
guards were murdered, and the queen, forced to fly half 
dressed, was near being assassinated in her bed. Lafay- 
ette, awoke by the general noise, and the cries of the 
multitude, arrived at last, placed himself at the head of 
the grenadiers, and expelled from the castle the ruffian* 
4 



26 L*JFAYETTE ? S LIFE. 

who had introduced themselves into it. Fifteen of the 
body guard, whom they were about to murder, were 
saved. But this was the day, when Louis XVI. yielding 
to theories of the populace, went to Paris with his fami- 
ly — and from that time his power ceased. 

A few days after, Lafayette, in a very animated con- 
ference which fie had with the Duke of Orleans, gave 
him to understand that Ins name formed the pretext for 
all the disorder, and that it was necessary lie should 
leave the kingdom for some time. A pretended mission 
Was given to this prince, and he went to England, From 
(Ins period, to the departure of th« king, no great crimes 
were committed in Pans, although the agitation was ex- 
treme. One individual had been seized by the mob, and 
they bad already suspended him to a lamp post, when 
the commandant general hastened to the spot, and him- 
self cut the cord, and saved the unhappy man. But M. 
Lafayette's greatest triumph is the period of the federa- 
tion, July 14, 1790. It was on that day that he received 
the general command of the national guard of France. 
All these national guards and the troops of the line, met 
by deputation in the Champ de Mars, and swore in pres- 
ence of the King and the assembly to maintain a constitu- 
tion, which did not yet exist. The eyes of all France 
were turned on the commandant general of the national 
guard. Surrounded with the homage of the whole army, 
he was really the master of the kingdom, and his power 
was immense. The minds of the people were then in 
the greatest agitation ; everywhere insurrections were 
ready to break out, which caused the apprehension that 
a general overturn would take place. JYI. Lafayette suc- 
ceeded for a long time in restraining them. 1 he active 
service in which he was engaged prevented his sharing in 
many of the deliberations, but he voted for all the im- 
portant innovations, such as trial by jury, the civil and 
political rights oi' people of color, although not for the 
immediate abolition of slavery, as some biographers 
have asserted. He wished, with Mirabeau, whose life 



lapayette's life. 27 

be saved during th i »i righi to make peace and 

war, that the introduction of this law should be left to the 
king. 

In the holy week of 1791, the king wished '<> ^;> to 
St. Cloud. A Boon as (In-, reached the ears of the jaco- 
bin party, they reported that the monarch was about to 
leave the kingdom. This was believed by the national 
guard, and instead of favouring this little expedition, they 
prevented ii, not withstanding the orders of their general 
to flu: contrary, whom, uat.il thai time, they had obeyed 
with the greatest enthusiasm. Lafayette, vexed with 
this disobedience, resigned the command, but Ha: nation- 
al guard displayed > m i :h that In 'I it 
again. On the departure of (he king in June of 

me year, la- was accused by the jacobins of having fa- 
voured it The truth is, that whatever suspicion la: 
might have of the monarch's projeel , la: knew nothing 
positive wild respect to them. vVhen la- heard the 
news of if, before leaving his bed in the morning, he 
would not believe it. Be repaired to the mayor, and 
when la: w at the treets, they shouted rive La- 

jayette, and a has Lafayette. Mobs were formed, and 
they began to clamour for his head. The deputy Reu- 
bell endeavoured to infuse into the assembly) whi< : i 
hardly formed, suspicions of his fidelity — but Barnave re- 
pulsed those insii i rith much energy, and if was to 
tin. deputy that M. Lafayette owed In 

The king having been arrested at Varenne , by the 
measures which la: had taken, la: re overed i 
time Ins popularity; but he became more than ever the 
object of hatred \>> the loyali I S to the jacobins, 
Lafayette had already provoked ;ill their fury by his con- 
duct toward the Duke of Orleans, and from his causing 
the companies of the insurgent regiment at Nanci, who 
were coming to t'w »<, rai e the populi cc, to la,- arr< 
((!. From this moment the jacobins kept no more 
measures with him. Then Corypheus Marat, author of 
the Friend of the People, constantly denounced him as the 
traitor Lafayette. The affair of the ChiMnr. 



38 J.AFWT.TTlVs LIFE, 

brought this rage to its height. The republican party, 
which then began to manifest itself, already wished to) 
bring the king to trial. This party united with the jaco 
bins, and tins union formed tne insurrection. Lafayette 
dispersed it. Firing commenced without, or rather con- 
trary to his orders. Fournier tired a pistol almosl at his 

breast. He was arrested — but Lafayette caused him to 

be set at liberty. Notwithstanding this, he was accused 
of haying assassinated the patriots. After this event, the 
national guard, especially the old French guard, &rew 
furious, thej imprecated the jacobins, wished to destroy 
In a cannonade the e/uo, which they called a cavern, ana 
disperse the people who frequented it. Lafayette op- 
posed them. When the constitution was accepted in 
1791, he \otod i'ov the amnesty demanded by the king, 
and resigned the command of the national guard, sii 
as he derived Ins powers from the revolution, these 
powers ought to cease with it. The municipality, then 
constitutional, caused to be struck off a medal oi' gold in 
honor of Lafayette, and gay? him a bust of Washington. 
fie had sacrificed a great part of his fortune for the rev- 
olution, never being willing to accept the remuneration 
which the city offered ham from time to time. 

When the Mar was on the point oH being declared by 
the national assembly, against Austria and Prussia, the 
king gave him the command o( the' army o( the centre, 
destined tOCOVer the frontier o\' Ardennes. This army 
took the field the beginning of May 1792, but remained 
inactive. At the tune of the outrages of June 20, he 
addressed to his arm) an rder of the da), which excited 
in it a universal indignation against the Jacobins. Ad- 
dresses, in which the punishment of this crime was call- 
ed for, were signed by all the corps, and the General 
Avas desired to communicate them to the king and the 
National Assembly. The republicans, who till then had 
kept terms with Lafayette, hoping to draw him oyer tp 
their parly, came out against htm with the greatest vio- 
lence. The genera] himself went to Paris, appeared at 



LAFAYETTE^ LIFE. lii* 

j!h> bar of the assembly, and called for vengeance on the 

|nsult tp the killg and the constitution. He could obtain 

nothing, the business was referred to the committees, and 
instead of succeeding in his demand, the republicans, in 
concert with the Jacobins, had the boldness to demand 
that he himself Should be indicted, lie was well reced- 
ed, however by the national guard* A deputation ol 
Grenadiers from the different battalions, came to present 
him the homage of ins former companions in anus, plant- 
ed before the door of Ins hotel an enormous tree of lib- 
erty, bung with tri-colored ribbons, and begged him to 
place himself at their head, and destroy beioro Ins de- 
parture the infernal club, when; all the disorder was fo- 
mented, lie refused, saying, the majority ol'the assemb- 
ly be inn; COntitutional, there was no cause for alarm. 
Events soon taught bun, how small was i\\c power of tins 
nominal majority to resist their audacious adversaries. 

Before his departure he invited the king to place him- 
self in the midst oi' lus army, to escape the swords oft ha 
factious partv, and he offered to insure his safety. But 
tic indecision of the king, and the prejudices ol'the queen, 
prevented the king from availing himself of the last 
means of safety. The republicans introduced into the 
assembly, their project of indicting the (Jcncral. It 
was rejected by two thirds of the voices, but this deliber- 
ation was itself the signal for the revolution of August 
10th. Lafayette was just on iho point of fighting the 
Prussians, when he heard of this revolution. He wished 
at first to face the storm, ordered the commissioners w ho 
were sent to depose him to be arrested, and addressed 
his troops ma proclamation, in which alter having plac- 
ed the affair in the most odious colour, he told them to 
choose between Pction,\\m\ the kin;;' and constitution. No 
one hesitated, all the army cried I ire la Roi, Vive la Con- 
stitution. But the next day he left the armv, depend- 
ing but little, and with some reason, on this fust ebulli- 
tion of enthusiasm. He was accompanied by some of 
his officers. 



30 



LAFAYETTE S LIFE. 



It was then that M. Lafayette terminated his revolu- 
tionary career, a striking example of the rewards which 
the people reserve for their favorites. When his depar- 
ture was known, the Capuchin Chabot immediately put 
a price upon his head — he was declared an emigrant, 
and the commune of Paris, among other outrages, had the 
die of the medal which had been struck in honour of him 
the year before, broken by the executioner. He had 
hardly passed the frontier, when he was arrested at Lux- 
embourg, where some emigrants, who regarded him as 
the principal author of the revolution, loaded him with 
insults: The Duke of Saxe Teschen, even told him that 
he was reserved for the scaffold. He was afterwards 
delivered to the King or Prussia-, who had him conducted 
to Wesel, and thence to Magdeburg, where he remained 
a year in prison. 

The King of Prussia, upon making peace with France, 
in 1795, gave up his prisoner to the Austrians, who trans- 
ferred him to Olmutz, where he was still more severely 
treated, and suffered severely from sickness. His physi- 
cians requested that his situation might be ameliorated ; 
and i f was at this time, that Doctor Bollman, and a young 
man of the name of Huger, (now living in South Caro- 
lina) whose father had entertained Lafayette at his house 
in America, executed the daring project of carrying him 
off at the time he went out to take the air ; but he was 
retaken eight leagues from Olmutz, and kept instill clos- 
er confinement. His illness became more serious ; he 
was left without any assistance, even without light oi- 
lmen. — At the end of the year 1796, his virtuous wife 
and daughter obtained the permission to share his con- 
finement, thereby making the best eulogy of his virtues 
as a husband and father. At last the events of the war 
brought about his deliverance. General Bonaparte, 
pursuing his success against Austria, in his campaign ot 
1797, forced that power to set him at liberty. M. La- 
fayette did not return to France immediately. He 
stopped at Hamburg, and did not enter his country till 
after the 18th Brumiare. Bonaparte offered him at that 



Lafayette's life. 31 

time, a place in his senate, but he excused himself, and 
retired to one of his estates which had not been sold, 
and where he has lived for a long time a stranger to 
politics. Bonaparte, irritated by his refusal, swore 
to Lafayette a hatred, which descended even to 
his son. Whatever zeal was shewn by this young man 
in his service, he would never promote him in his rank, 
nor ever bestow on him the cross of the Legion of Hon- 
or ; whenever he found the name of Lafayette m a re- 
port, he angrily struck it out. 

After the 20th of March, 1815, the Marquis Lafay- 
ette was chosen deputy in the chamber of representa- 
tives, by the electors of the department of Seine and 
Marne, and he obtained fifty votes for the presidency. 
He did not speak in this assembly until the moment 
when Bonaparte, conquered at Waterloo, was consider- 
ed as irrecoverably lost. Lafayette voted then, neith- 
er for Napoleon nor for his son, but for what he called 
national independence. This is the speech which he pro- 
nounced June 21, 1815. "When, for the first time, after 
a silence of many years, I raise a voice that the old 
friends of liberty may still remember, I feel myself urged 
to speak to you of the dangers of the country which you 
alone have the power of saving. Dark reports were 
spread, they are unfortunately confirmed. This'is the 
moment for us to rally about the old tri-colored standard, 
that of '89, that of liberty, of equality, and of public 
order ; it is that alone which we have to defend our- 
selves against foreign pretensions and domestic treachery. 
Permit, gentlemen, a veteran in this sacred cause, who 
has always been a stranger to the spirit of faction, to 
lay before you some preliminary resolutions, of which I 
hope you will appreciate the necessity. Ait. I. The 
chamber of representatives declares that the indepen- 
dence of the nation is threatened. 2d. The chamber 
declares itself permanent — any attempt to dissolve it, is 
an act of high treason ; whoever is guilty of such an at- 
tempt shall be declared a traitor to his country, and shall 
be tried immediately as such. 3d. The army of the 



;1:i 



LAFAYETTE g LIFE. 



line and the national guard, who have fought, and are 
still fighting (o defend the liberty, the independence and 
the territory of Franee, have deserved well of their 
country. 4. The minister of the interior is invited to 
assemble the general slall^ the commanders and majors 
of legions of the Parisian national guard,' in order to ad- 
vise respecting the means of giving arms and bringing to 
the greatest perfection this citizen guard, whose zeal and 
patriotism, tried for twenty six years, offers a sure guar- 
antee to liberty, property, the tranquillity of the capital, 
and the inviolability of the representatives of the nation. 
5. The ministers of- war, of foreign relations, of the po- 
lice and of the interior arc invited immediately to meet 
this assembly;" 

This project was adopted with slight modifications. — 
1Y1. Lafayette was afterwards appointed one of the com- 
missioners, chosen bv the commission of government, to 
enter into a negociation with the chiefs of the allied pow- 
ers who were approaching Paris. It is known that this 
mission had no success. After the chamber was dissolv- 
ed, M. Lafayette returned to his home — he re-appeared 
on the political scenes, at the elections in 1817, and he 
obtained a number of votes for the Paris deputation. 

IMPRISONMENT OF GENERAL LAFAYETTE.* 
.Summars Siarrattur 

OK THE rTHCEMSTANCES WHICH ATTENDED THE DETENTION OF L.A- 

TOtm, Mauihh'uo. Bureau De I'i/.v, Lafayette, and his family. 

C Communicated by one oft lie Prisoners. J 

Lafayette, Maubourg, and Bureau De Puzy, having in 
vain endeavoured to support the constitution of 1791, 
which they had sworn to maintain, and finding them- 
selves compelled to emigrate, with some officers, in order 
to avoid the execution of decrees passed against them, 
meant to proceed to Holland ; but, some leagues from 
the frontier, they were, notwithstanding their protesta- 
tions, arrested by an Austrian post, and conducted to 
Luxemburg. Having sent to ask passports from the 

* Scgur's Reign of William II. King* of Prussia. 



Lafayette's life, 33 

Duke de Saxc-Teschen, they were refused ; and those 
who signified this refusal, barbarously informed them 
that they were reserved for the scaffold! 

As soon as the orders had been reeeived from the 
court of Vicnnn, which determined the fate of the pris- 
oners, and delivered them over to the Kino; of Prussia, 
they were all three carried and confined at Wesel, where 
they were guarded by non-com missioned officers, whose 
orders were to observe them constantly and not to an- 
swer their questions. 

Lafayette had fatten dangerously sick. His fellow- 
sufferers were refused permission at Maubourg to sec 
their friend, ready to expire. A salutary crisis having 
rescued him from the jaws of death, the King of Prussia 
thought he might profit; by his dejected state, and had a. 
proposal made to him that his situation should be allevi- 
ated, if he would furnish him with phms against France ; 
— but he proved, by an energetic reply, his contempt of 
such a proposition. The rigour towards him was then 
redoubled, and soon after, they were thrown into a cart 
and carried to Magdeburg, and were constantly refused 
any information of the c'xistenee of their families respect- 
ing whom the proscriptions in France gave them the 
most anxious inquietude; 

In travelling thus, their keepers thought to aggravate 
their distress and excite the public indignation against 
them. These wishes however were not fulfilled ; they 
every where received rruuks of the interest excited by 
the injustice of their detention, and the constancy of their 
courage. 

They remained a year at Magdeburg, in a damp dark 
rault, surrounded by high p.'ihsadocs, shut by four suc- 
cessive gates, and fastened with bars of* iron and pad- 
locks. However, their situation seemed milder, that 
they were sometimes allowed to see each other, and 
were walked out an hour each day on a bastion. 

The King of Prussia suddenly sent an order to remove 
Lafayette to Silesia ; and Maubourg solicited and obtain* 
3 



34 Lafayette's life/ 

cd leave to be confined there with him. They were 
conducted to Glatz, whither Bureau dc Puzy was soon' 
after sent. 

Alexander Lambeth, being dangerously ill, could not 
be transported with his companions. His mother, who 
enjoyed a respect merited by her virtues, obtained of 
Frederick William, after ardent solicitation that he 
should remain in prison in his dominions, and some time 
after, peace being concluded between that monarch and 
the French, she succeeded in procuring his liberty. — 
The king of Prussia granted it, because he did not think 
himself longer obliged to observe the same respect to- 
wards the court of Vienna, which was irritated against 
him for having quitted the coalition. The prisoners 
were transferred to Neifs ; and although the dungeon 
which they there inhabited Avas still more dismal and un- 
wholesome than any of the others, this change appeared 
happy to them, as all the three prisoners together were 
allowed to enjoy the presence of madame de Maisoneuve, 
Avho came courageously to share the chains of her broth- 
er Maubourg. 

The King of Prussia, who did not wish on making 
peace with France to be obliged from justice to release 
his victims, determined to send them into Austria, and 
they were carried into Olmutz. 

On their arrival at this place, they were robbed of 
whatever the Prussians had left them, which reduced 
them to their watches and buckles ; some of their books 
even were seized, in which was found the word liberty ; 
particularly Helvetius de VEsprit, and Fame's Common 
Sense ; on which Lafayette asked if these were contra- 
band articles. 

Each of them was told, on being shut up separately in 
his cell," That they should hereafter see only their four 
walls, that they would have neither news, necessaries, 
nor visitors ; that it Avas forbidden to mention their 
names even among the jailors, or in the government des- 
patches in Avhich they Avere distinguished by numbers ; 
that they would never be informed of the fate of their 



.Lafayette's life. 35 

•families, nor of each other's existence ; and that as their 
situation might naturally lead them to sell' destruction, 
ihey were forbidden knife, fork, and every means what- 
ever of suicide." 

After three certificates of physicians, of the indispen- 
sable necessity of air for Lafayette, and after three re- 
plies that he was not yet sufficiently ill, he was at length 
permitted to walk out unconditionally ; for it is false that 
Lafayette enjoyed this liberty, as has been alleged, on 
his engagement of honour that he should not attempt to 
make his escape. 

The public are already made acquainted with the en- 
terprise of Dr. Boleman, and young Huger, the son of the 
man at whose house Lafayette first landed in America. 

Boleman, after several months unsuccessful attempts, 
succeeded in procuring a note to be secretly delivered to 
him, and executed a very bold plan. — He repaired to 
Vienna, sent for young Huger thither, and posted him- 
self with him at the place where Lafayette was to be 
conducted to take the air ; and these two attempted to 
rescue him at the moment when, having misled some of 
his keepers, they endeavoured to disarm the one that 
remained with him. 

In this struggle, Lafayette gave himself a violent 
strain in the loins, and the corporal-jailer, with whom he 
contended, and whom he had disarmed, tore with his 
teeth his hand to the bone;! 

His generous deliverers succeeded in getting him on 
horseback, with such negligence of their own safety, that 
they could scarcely find their horses to escape themselves. 
This loss of time, and the alarms of the keepers, having 
attracted people and troops, Huger was immediately se- 
cured. Lafayette, separated from Boleman, was seized 
eight leagues from Olmutz, and with less difficulty as he 
had no arms. Boleman reached the Prussian territories, 
but the king of Prussia had the barbarity to deliver him 
up to the Austrians. 

From this time the captivity of Lafayette was more 
rigorous, and his illness became more serious. He was 



36 Lafayette's life. 

left without relief, with an unremitting fever, during a re 
markably severe winter, deprived of light and not even 
allowed the linen which his situation rendered ncccssarv. 

To increase his suffering, he was constantly made to 
believe that his companions had perished on the scaiFold. 

The care that had been taken to keep Lafnyette from 
the knowledge of every thing that might serve to inform 
him of the fate of his Family is remarkable in the follow- 
ing anecdote. 

Latour Maubourg, having at length obtained permis- 
sion to despatch letters to his relations, learned that 
Madame Lafayette was yet alive. He requested the 
commandant to allow his friend to be told that his wife 
yet lived ; the commandant, after answering, " That his 
orders in this respect were express," from that time sup- 
pressed all the letters in which Madame Lafayette was 
mentioned, and did not deliver them to him till near a 
year afterwards when he quitted Olmutz. 

Whilst Lafayette, reserved for the scaffold, was tor- 
tured in the prisons of Olmutz, his wife, uncertain of his 
existence, and condemned to perpetual grief in the prisons 
of Paris, daily expected to be led to execution, as had 
happened to the greater part of her family. The- fall 
of the tyrant saved her life ; but she did not, till long- 
after his death, regain her liberty and strength sufficient 
to execute her designs. Having landed at Altona the 
9th of September 1795, she set out for Vienna under the 
name of Mot tier, with an American passport ; and arri- 
ved at Vienna before the court could be informed of her 
purpose, or prepared against her application. 

The Prince de Rosenberg, affected with her virtues, 
obtained for her and her daughters an audience of the 
Emperor, some detail of which it may be proper to give. 

Madame Lafayette, claiming the liberty of her hus- 
band, in the name of justice and humanity, that prince 
answered her, " This affair is complicated \ my hands 
are tied respecting it ; but 1 grant with pleasure all that 
is in my power, by permitting you to join M. de la Fay- 
ette : I should act as you do were I in your place. Klf 



lajpayette's lif$. 31 

4c la Fayette is well treated, but the presence of his 
wife and daughters will be an additional indulgence." 

Madame Lafayette spoke of their prisoners, and par- 
ticularly of Lafayette's servants, who she knew had suf- 
fered much, and whose affair could not be complicated. 
The Emperor very graciously permitted her to write 
respecting those from Olmutz, and to address her ap- 
plications directly to his imperial majesty ; and Madame 
cle Lafayette, re-assured by the reception she had met 
with, then wrote on the road from Vienna to Olmutz, 
that she was asstonished to find herself yet susceptible 
of all the happiness she was beginning to enjoy. But it 
was not long before sad experience convinced her that 
the Emperor was deceived, and was ignorant of the cruel 
and tyrannical abuse his barbarous agents made of his 
name and authority. 

Mesdames de Maubourg and de Puzy, inspired by the 
same sentiments, wished also to partake the chains of 
t heir husbands ! but they were never permitted to enter 
the Austrian dominions. 

It is easy to imagine the impression Lafayette must 
have experienced at the sudden appearance of his wife 
and his children, whose existence had long been to him 
an object of fear and uncertainty ; and that which his 
aifectionate daughters and fc thcir mother must have felt 
at the sight of his emaciated figure and pale counten- 
ance. But they did not expect that their embraces 
would be interrupted, by the jailers robbing the travel- 
lers of all they had brought with them. 

They took their purse, very ill supplied, and easily 
seized three forks considered as instruments of suicide : — 
for they well knew the temptation to it they had in- 
spired. On this unexpected treatment, madame de la 
b ayette desired to speak to the commandant. They 
answered that he was forbidden to sec her, but that she 
might write to him. She desired to write to the Em- 
peror, conformably to the permission he had granted 
tier ; this they refused, telling her that her application* 



38 LAFAYETTE'S LI Ft. 

to t\\c commandant would be forwarded to Vienna. — - 
These consisted in attending mass on Sunday, having a 
soldiers wife to wait on her daughters, and being as well 
as Lafayette, waited on by one of his domestics. She 
received no answer to all these demands, nor to an ap- 
plication she some time afterwards addressed to the min- 
ister of war, to see Latour Maubourg and Puzy, except 
this, "Madame de la Fayette, has submitted to share 
the captivity of her husband." 

At length the health of this unfortunate lady, impair- 
ed by sixteen months imprisonment, and dreadful vexa- 
tion, in France, displaying symptoms which denoted a 
tendency of the fluids to putrescence, she thought it her 
duty to attempt some means for her preservation ; and 
wrote to the Emperor to solicit permission from him to 
pass a week at Vienna, there to respire salubrious air, 
and consult a physician, After two months of silence, 
which supposes the necessity of medical advice as of no 
consequence, the commandant, till then unknown to the 
prisoners, entered their apartment, ordered without 
giving any reason, the young ladies to retire to a sepa- 
rate room, signified to Madame de la Fayette the Empe- 
ror's refusal for her ever to enter Vienna, and gave her 
permission to go out, on condition of never returning: — 
he desired her to write and sign her option ; she wrote : 

" I considered it a duty to my family and friends to de- 
sire the assistance necessary for my health ; but they 
well know that it cannot at the price attached to it, be 
accepted by me. I cannot forget, that whilst we were 
on the point of perishing, myself by the tyranny of Ko- 
bespierre, and my husband by the physical and moral 
sufferings of captivity, I was not permitted to obtain any 
intelligence of him, not to acquaint him that his children 
and myself were yet alive ; and I shall not expose my- 
self to the horrors of another separation. Whatever, 
then, may be the state of my health and the incon- 
veniences of this abode for my daughters, we will grate- 
fully avail ourselves of his imperial majesty's generosity. 



Lafayette's life. 39 

iii permitting us to partake this captivity, in all its cir- 
cumstances." — Signed, Noalies la Fayette. 

From this moment, no complaint, was expressed, and 
this ill-fated pair respired in their chambers, or more 
properly speaking* dungeons, an air so feted, from the 
exhalations of $ sewer* and of the privies of the garri- 
son placed near Fayette's window, that the soldiers who 
brought their food held their nose on opening the door. 

The constant answer of the person pi' power or inter* 
est, who heard their barbarities exclaimed against, was, 
4 Madame de Lafayette has chosen to share the lot of 
her husband : she has no right to complain.' They 
might as well have said, every tiling is allowed against 
Lafayette ; the life of his wife and children is not worth 
arresting our vengeance for a moment. 



FURTHER PARTICULARS RELATING TO THE GENERAL S ESCArE FROM 

OLMUTZ. 

After Lafayette made his escape from the prison of 
Olmutz, he took the road he was directed, and arrived 
without any obstacle at a small town about ten miles 
from Olmutz ; here the road divided ; that leading to 
Troppau lay to the right ; unfortunately he took the 
left. — He had scarce left the town, when, perceiving 
the road turning too much to the left, he suspected he 
had mistaken his way, and inquired of a person he met, 
the way to Bautropp. The man, eyeing him with a look 
of curiosity, at length told him he had missed his way, 
but directed him to take another, which, he said, would 
goon lead him right. This man, from Lafayette's ap- 
pearance, his horse in a foam, his foreign accent, and the 
inquiries he made, suspected him to be a prisoner making 
his escape ; he therefore directed him by a road, which, 
by a circuit, led him back to the town, ran himself to the 
magistrate, and told him his suspicion ; so that when 
Lafayette thought himself upon the point of regaining 



40 Lafayette's life. 

the road, which would soon secure his retreat, he found 
himself surrounded by a guard of armed men, who, re- 
gardless of his protestations, conveyed him to the magis- 
trate. He was, however, so collected, that he gave the 
most plausible answers to the interrogations that were 
put to him i he said he was an officer of excise at 
Troppau, and that having friends at Olmutz, he had 
been there upon a visit ; had been detained there by in- 
disposition longer than he intended, and as his time of 
leave of absence was expired, he was hastening back, and 
begged he might not be detained ; for if he did not reach 
Troppau that day, he was afraid his absence might be 
noticed, and he should lose his office. The magistrate 
was so much prepossessed in his favour by this account, 
and by the readiness of his answers to every question, 
that he expressed himself perfectly satisfied, and was 
going to dismiss him, when the door of an inner room 
opened, and a young man entered with papers for the 
magistrate to sign. While this was doing, the young man 
fixed his eyes upon Lafayette, and immediately whisper- 
ed the magistrate : " Who do you say he is ?" " The 
General Lafayette." " How do you know him ?" " I 
was present when the General was delivered up by the 

Prussians to the Austrians at ; this is the man, I 

cannot be mistaken." 

Fayette entreated to be heard. The magistrate told 
him it was useless for him to speak ; he must consent im- 
mediately to be conveyed to Olmutz, and his identity 
would then be ascertained. Dismayed and confounded, 
he submitted to his hard late, was carried back to Ol- 
mutz, and the day, which rose to him with the fairest 
prospects of happiness and liberty, beheld him at the 
close of it plunged in still deeper misery and imprison- 
ment. Bolcman, having eluded the search of his pursu- 
ers, arrived at the place where the chaise had been or- 
dered to wait their coming. Finding it still there, and 
yet no appearance of Lafayette, he foreboded mischief. 
With as much patience as he could command, he re- 
mained till evening, not yci giving up all hopes of a for- 



Lafayette's life. 41 

lunate issue to their adventure. He dismissed the 
chaise, however, and made a circuitous journey, in hopes 
his friends might have escaped by a different route ; 
but could gain no information whatever, till, on the third 
day, a rumour of Lafayette having been retaken in at- 
tempting his escape, dissipated his hopes ; and, anxious to 
learn the truth, he took the road to Olmutz. He soon 
■was told the melancholy tale, with the addition, that his 
friend Huger had shared a similar fate. In despair, at 
having been the primary cause of his misfortune, and de- 
termining to share it with him, he voluntarily surrender- 
ed, and was committed a prisoner to the castle. 

Thus, by a train of most untoward accidents, which no 
prudence could foresee or guard against, failed a plan so 
long meditated, and so skilfully projected. The reader's 
attention must now be confined chiefly to Huger, the de- 
tail of whose sufferings the writer is better acquainted 
with than those of Boleman, having been informed of 
them by himself. The day after his entrance into the 
castle, Huger received notice from the jailor, to prepare 
for an examination before the chief magistrate of the 
city. As he was not conscious of having committed any- 
very heinous crime, he was under no apprehension for 
his life ; but expected that, after he had told his story, 
and declared the motive of his actions, his judge might 
subject him to some slight punishment, perhaps a short 
imprisonment ; what then was his amazement, when he 
heard himself accused of having entered into a conspiracy 
against the Austrian government ! 

The examination was carried on by means of an inter- 
preter, a young man of a benign aspect, who seemed to 
compassionate his situation, and who, when he gave such 
answers as he thought might tend to hurt his cause, made 
him repeat his answers, softening their import, assuring 
him that he knew he did not exactly express himself in 
proper terms, and desiring him to recollect whether he 
did not mean to answer in such and such a manner. Hu- 
ger saw his good intentions, and determined to rely on 
6 



42 Lafayette's life. 



lis judgment, especially after he had heard him say in & 
ow voice, ** 1 am your friend." Alter this, and many 



In- 
low 

subsequent examinations, the magistrate informed him 
he must not expect pardon, but advised him to prepare 
for the worst. This exhortation, so often repeated, be- 
o-an to have some effect upon him ; and considering he 
was in the power of an absolute monarch, whose will 
was superior to la:v, he could not shake off some melan- 
choly presages. His place of confinement was a loath- 
some dungeon, without light ; he was fed with the coars- 
est food, chained to the floor during the night ; his own 
clothes taken from him, and others sent him that had al- 
ready been worn by many an unfortunate prisoner. Thus 
he dragged on the first three months of his confinement. 
After that time he was removed to a better room, 
into which glimmered a borrowed light ; better clothes 
and more wholesome food were given him, and his cir- 
cumstances in every respect were improved. But still 
he was uncertain as to his fate, and the jailor was the only 
human being who visited him. One day he was surprise 
ed with the appearance of his young friend the interpre- 
ter, Mr. W. Nothing could exceed his joy at once 

more beholding a kindly human face. He informed Hu- 
o-er that the court of Austria had believed that all the 
garrison of Olmutz had been engaged in the conspiracy ; 
that many people had been arrested upon suspicion ; for 
it could not be believed that two such young men as he 
and Boleman could have formed and executed so daring a 
plan without the aid of others ; but as no proofs had 
hitherto appeared, it was determined to bring them 
shortly to trial, and for that purpose lawyers were to be 
sent from Vienna to assist the magistrate of the city. 
Huger now, for the first time, learned the complete fail- 
ure of their scheme, and that Boleman was under the 
same roof with him. However sad the reflection was, 
that his friend's sufferings equalled his own, yet he could 
not express the joy he felt at being so near him. Soon 
after, he discovered that he inhabited the room above 
him. Thenceforward his treatment was much less rigo- 



Lafayette's life. 45 

£ous ; even the jailor, who, till lately, had observed a 
profound silence, relaxed his caution, and came frequent- 
ly to visit him : and though a man of few words, yet as 
his presence broke the dreary solitude, he felt happy 
whenever he made his appearance. Many were the 
experiments he tried to hold communication with Bole- 
man, and at length he succeeded. 

He discovered that the window which threw a bor» 
rowed light into his cell served likewise to throw light 
into that ofBoleman. He picked a piece of lime from 
the wall, and with it scratched a few words upon a black 
silk handkerchief he wore about his neck ; then fixing it 
on a stick, he climbed up the side of the room, and raised 
the stick as near the common window as he could, till it 
had attracted the attention of Boleman, who, after many 
efforts, made himself master of it, and returned an an- 
swer by the same method. Delighted with having over- 
come this difficulty, they never suffered a day to pass 

without some communication. To W they were 

indebted for the means of rendering their situation still 
more comfortable by engaging the jailor's wife in their 
interest ; a few presents, and now and then a small piece 
of money, induced her secretly to bring them books, 
food, wine, and -warmer clothes ; and at length to pro- 
cure a meeting of the two friends, at first short, but by 
degrees become more hardy, they were permitted to 
pass some part of every day together. At length, at the 
end of seven months, they were informed that the crown 
lawyers were arrived. The government by this time 
was satisfied that the attempt to liberate Lafayette was 
planned independently by two adventurers, and that it 
was not a plot laid by the secret agents of France, in 
which the garrison of Olmutz at least was concerned, if 
it were not more widely extended ; and upon their trial, 
the sole fact of having attempted to rescue a state pris- 
oner, was alleged against them. 

This fact being proved, they were remanded to their 
prison, to await the sentence which was pronounced 
against them by the supreme magistrate. They were 



* 



44 lafayette's life. 

now, however, permitted every indulgence but liberty. 

It was some days before they beard from W , and 

when he came, they were astonished and confounded to 
hear from him that their punihsment was intended to be 
imprisonment for life. He however consoled them by 
hinting, that if they could by any means procure money, 
this sentence might be changed to one much less severe^ 
as it remained with the magistrate to pass what sentence 
he thought proper, or even to release them entirely. 
Boleman had no fortune, and as Huger had no credit in 
Austria, it would be along time before he could receive a 

remittance from London. W , their guardian angel, 

promised to do all he could for them. 

In the vicinity of Olmutz, resided a Russian nobleman, 
of most polished manners, joined to the greatest benevo- 
lence of heart. With him W enjoyed a perfect in- 
timacy and friendship ; they were congenial souls. — 

W had made him acquainted with the whole of their 

story; and he now nobly offered to advance them what- 
ever money he might want to accomplish their release, 
and to defray their expenses to Hamburg. Having thus 
removed the greatest difficulty, his next care was to 
sound the sentiments of the magistrate. This he could 
easily effect, as in the capacity of interpreter, he had 
constant communication with him. He soon discerned 
that the magistrate was not averse to his speaking in 
their favor ; and when he artfully insinuated that a 
large reward would certainly attend his declaring him- 
self inclined to pardon, he found he was listened to with 
more attention. Having gained this point, he very soon 
came to an cclaircissemcnt. The magistrate made an 

exorbitant demand ; W said it was useless for him 

to go to the prisoners with such terms ; and as he knew 
exactly the state of their finances, he could at once 
mention what they had to give, and therefore the ut- 
most he could expect. This sum was fifty pieces. — 
He refused to comply for less than a hundred. In an- 
swer to this, W desired him to consider, that if he 

delayed his determination, he mighty lose his prize 



Lafayette's life. 45 

altogether, for great interest was making* at Vienna for 
the release oi' the prisoners, which lie had no doubt 
would succeed, as, amongst others, the English and 
American Ambassadors had exerted themselves in their 
favor. This upright magistrate at last yielded to the im- 
pulse of avarice, and agreed that if the prisoners would 
send him the money before they left the prison, they 
should be released the next day. To this he answered, 
that they were so distrustful of all about them, that he 
was certain they would rather await the result of the 
petition at Vienna, than part with their little stock of 
money at an uncertainty ; but added that he himself 
would become their security, and be answernble to him 
for the money, in case they did not pay it. To this 

he agreed, and W was authorized to negociate with 

the prisoners. AH matters being soon settled, the term 
of their imprisonment was fust fixed at fourteen years, 
then shortened to seven, soon after to one, then fo a 
month, and lastly to a week ; at the expiration of which 
they were released from prison. They immediately re- 
paired to the house of the magistrate to return him thanks 
for the many indulgences he had allowed them, and upon 
shaking hands with him at parting, the stipulated sum 
was put into his hands. It is not to be supposed they 
made a long stay at Olmutz ; no longer than was ne- 
cessary to pour out their grateful acknowledgements to 
the Russian nobleman, and above all, to the r»ble mind- 
ed, generous W , to whose kindness the* owed all 

the comforts they had experienced in prison, and to 
whose friendly and humane exertions they were ultimate- 
ly indebted for their liberation. M. Lafayette, the 
unfortunate cause of their distresses, remained in confine- 
ment till the close of the year 1797, when, upon a peace 
taking place between Austria and France, he was re- 
leased at the request of the French General, Bonaparte. 

General Lafayette is now upwards of G7 years of age ; 
with a fresh and vigorous constitution for one of his 
years — though it was severely tried in the dungeon of 



46 lafayette's life. 

Olmutz. He lost all his hair during his severe confine? 
ment, and now wears a wig. His wife and his daugh* 
ters insisted upon being the companions of his imprison- 
ment. The constitution of his amiable wife sunk under 
the trial — those of his daughters were much injured. — 
These two ladies are married — and in remembrance of 
" the theatre of his toils and of his glory," bear the names 
of Virginia and Carolina. One of his sons bears the hon- 
orable name of George Washington. 

General Lafayette's is a true patriarchal family. His 
two daughters and his two sons and their respective fam- 
ilies live with this illustrious man at his Castle of La 
Grange. A gentleman who spent a week at his house 
a few years since, says they had thirteen children cor- 
responding in number to that of the old United States — 
and most of them marked in their names with something 
American. Lafayette is their head — their protector — 
the being of all others on earth endeared to them by a 
thousand ties. He has only been once married. At the 
age of nineteen he left the arms of his wife, and the 
sweets of home, to fight for a people to whom he was 
not known, and who had no claims upon him, but he 
felt for their wrongs and he was determined in opposition 
to the wishes of his friends to battle for liberty in the 
new world — notwithstanding the strongest affection 
bound him to his wife. She shared the dungeon with 
him ; sacrificed her life, in fact, for her affectionate hus- 
band — and to this day, he makes it a sacred and invaria- 
ble rule to abandon the pleasures of society on the anni- 
versary week of his wife's dissolution. "• You must not 
go this week to La Grange, (said the American consul to 
his friend) it is the week devoted to the memory of his 
lamented wife.'* 

Whenever he walks into the fields, he generally takes 
some of his grand-children with him. He amuses him- 
self with their prattling, joins in their little sports, and 
contributes to their happiness, Such is the man whose 
name fills the whole of Europe with his fame — the man 
who has contributed to establish the liberties of the 



Lafayette's life, 47 

hew world. Such is the man. who is at this moment an 
object of the greatest curiosity and admiration of the 
American people — and whose arrival on our shores is a 
sort of national jubilee. 

Lafayette is particularly remarkable for the unaffect- 
ed simplicity of his manners. He was distinguished for 
his want of pride, his distaste for great parade, when he 
was among us — he still preserves the same noble trait in 
his character. As one striking evidence of it, he de- 
clined the honor, awarded to no other man — of embark- 
ing on board a ship of the line, especially to be despatch- 
ed for him, by the unanimous voice of both houses of 
Congress. 

Lafayette is as much distinguished for his amiable 
and affectionate temper, as for his respect to the liber- 
ties of man. His heart melts with generous emotions as 
well as that of the humblest and most undistinguished of 
men. The Americans are particularly dear to him. He 
is always accessible to them — his eye kindles whenever 
he talks of America. " Why cannot you come to live 
among us — and lay your bones among a people, who owe 
you so much, and whose latest descendants will vener- 
ate your ashes?*' Lafayette pointed to his grandchildren 
around him — he made no other reply. They were among 
the strong ties which bound him to France. He could not 
make up his mind to break them. 

' ; You are now in America,'' said he to an intelligent 
Virginian, from whom we have had the anecdote. — 
" America ?" " Yes, this room is what I call America." 
His guest looked around him, and beheld scattered every- 
where, the tokens of his country — maps of the different 
states — the portraits of our distinguished men, of Wash- 
ington, Franklin, Henry, &c. American books — the 

electrical machine, with which the great Frankun had 
made so many experiments, and which he had given as 
a mark of his respect to this noble Frenchman. 

Among other curiosities, was a sword, remarkable for 
singular incidents. Of all the worldly goods, which La- 
favette most valued, was this sword. Fearful of its be- 



48 

ing snatched from his possession, by some of the allied 
troops, who were then around Paris, he had deposited it 
in the safe keeping of Mr. Jackson, the American charge 
dcs Affaires in Paris. This sword had been presented 
to Lafayette by the American Congress. It bore upon 
it the emblems of our nation. Upon the destruction of 
the Bastilc, the first key of this tremendous edifice was 
sent, at the instance of Lafayette, as a present to Wash- 
ington. The second key was melted into this sword, 
thus uniting, in the same object, the memorials of the 
struggles of two great nations, the one then commencing 
its revolution, the other having achieved it. 

It was owing to the intercession of Washington, that 
Lafayette was delivered from the dungeon of Olmutz. — 
When he was restored to Paris, the commissary of the 
deposit delivered him into the hands of the American 
consul, who was called upon for a receipt of the illustri- 
ous prisoner. 

Such was the treatment of a man, who is an ornament 
to human nature — and of whom America is proud to 
make " A nation's guest. 

Those who are desirous of taking a nearer view of 
Lafayette's domestic relations, may consult with advan- 
tage Lady Morgan's France. Those who wish to study 
his political character, must go to the annals of two 
great nations — and they will there see Lafayette's name 
enrolled in the brightest colors — always noble in his 
views, pure in his means, the friend of liberty and of man. 



'.1 



•» 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



•!©• 



Peruaps the annals of greatness do not furnish an ex- 
ample of magnanimity, equal to that of the immortal 
patriot who forms the subject of the present work. — 
Early in life he caught the holy inspiration of freedom : 
and " the spring-time of his years" was devoted to the 
hallowed purpose of erecting, in this western hemisphere, 
an altar, amidst " darkness and doubt,"'' to the genius of 
republicanism : — a monument consecrated to liberty, 
which, to use his own language; " might serve as a lesson 
to the oppressor, an example to the oppressed." 

" Reared in the lap of unlimited luxury, surrounded 
by every thing conducive to physical happiness, how cau 
we appreciate the sincerity and ardour of that attach- 
ment to the rights of man, which stimulated him under- 
such circumstances, to sacrifice at the shrine of Inde- 
pendence ! — Upon this heroic career, he entered at an 
age when all that is liberal in the human character com- 
mences its dcvclopcment — when the germs of generosi- 
ty, untouched by the cankerworms of avarice or ambi- 
tion begin to unfold and expand — when sympathy for 
the enslaved, and abhorrence of tyranny in its hideous va- 
riety of forms, exhibit their first blessed fruits in all vir- 
tuous minds. This glorious example of disinterested pat- 
riotism, demands the boundless gratitude of Americans ; 
and will forever remain a soul-animating theme for the 
contemplation of future Statesmen and philanthropists/" 



50 TOUR OF LAFAYEiTTE. 

Although it is forty years tiincc the venerable 
hero sat his foot upon our shores, lie has never ceased to 
take a deep interest in whatever related to the welfare 
of the United States. In answer to a letter, addressed to 
him by Mr. Brannan, of Washington, in 1823, who had 
presented him " a copy of his compilation of official mili- 
tary and naval letters, written during the late war with 
Great Britain," he thus writes : 

" Dear Sir. — No present could be more acceptable to 
me, no pleasure in reading could be greater, than that 
for which I am under obligations to you. Accept my 
best thanks in general for the book which retraces glori- 
ous perils and patriotic names, in the late American War, 
and also for the justice you have done to the warm inter- 
est of an old American citizen and soldier, in those honor- 
able transactions. Most deeply and affectionately, in- 
deed, I have felt for the worthy sons of my companions 
in arms, and for the country of which it is my proud, hap- 
py lot, to be an adopted son. Be pleased to present your 
respected father with assurances of my brotherly attach- 
ment, sensible as I am of the mutual gratification we 
should both find in remembering together our revolution- 
ary campaigns.* 

"A visit to the United States, which 1 may be allow- 
ed to take, once moret [before] going home, would be to 
me a source of inexpressible delight. It is true, most of 
the friends of my youth, the partners in common feelings 
and exertions with our paternal Chief, are no more. But 
several are still living, and I have been blessed with the 
most ilattcring testimonials that ensuing generations have 
not forgotten me. How happy should I be in sight of 
that eminent freedom, prosperity, domestic comfort, and 

*The pistols presented by the Marquis I, afayf.tte to Gen. Washington, 
and worn by the latter during- the most cTour Revolutionary War, were, on 
the anniversary of the New Orleans victory, presented by Wm. Robinson. 
Esq. of Virginia, through Col. Mercer, to Ceo. Jackson. 

tit is presumed that the word before was omitted io the original letter, and 
supplied by the printer. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



51 



all the advantages of true civilization and extensive felici- 
ty, which, placing the United States above ancient and 
modern societies, seem to stand as a compensation for the 
disappointments we have had to deplore in Europe. 

During the session of the 18th Congress, that body unan- 
imously passed a resolution inviting him to the United 
States, and offered a national vessel for his conveyance 
to our shores. But he modestly declined the offer, pre- 
fering to embark in a private vessel. It being well un- 
derstood that the General would arrange his affairs in 
France in season to visit the United States during the 
summer of 1824 — the Mayor of the city of Boston, 
by direction of the city council, addressed Lafayette 
the following letter ; 

United States of Jlrmricu. 
Boston, 20th March, 1824. 

Sir — Your intention to visit the United States has 
been made known to its citizens by the proceedings of 
their national legislature. The city of Boston shares in 
the universal pleasure which the expectation of so inter- 
esting an event has diffused. But it has causes of satis- 
faction peculiarly its own. Many of its inhabitants re- 
collect, and all have heard of your former residence in 
this metropolis, of the delight with which you were here 
greeted on your second visit to this country ; and of the 
acclamations of a grateful multitude, which attended you, 
when sailing from this harbour on your last departure 
from the United States; and also of that act of munifi- 
cence, by which, in latter times you extended the hand of 
relief, in their distress. 

These circumstances have impressed upon the inhab- 
itants of this city, a vivid recollection of your person, and 
a peculiar interest in your character, endearing you to 
their remembrance by sentiments of personal gratitude, 
as well as by that sense of national obligation with which 
the citizens of the United States are universally pene- 
trated. 

With feelings of this kind, the City Council of Boston, 



52 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



in accordance with the general wish of their constituents, 
have directed me to address this letter to you, and to 
express the hope that, should it comport with your con- 
venience, you would do them the honor, on your ensu-» 
ing visit to the United States, to disembark in this city, 
and to communicate the assurance that no event could 
possibly be more grateful to its inhabitants ; — that no 
where could you meet with a more cordial welcome ; that 
you could find no where hearts more capable of appre- 
ciating your early zeal and sacrifices to the cause of 
American freedom, or more ready to acknowledge and 
honor that characterestic uniformity oi virtue, with 
which through along life, and in scenes of unexampled 
diiricuhy and danger, you have stedfastly maintained the 
cause of an enlightened civil liberty in both hemispheres. 

Very respectfully, I am your obedient servant, 

JOSIAH QUINCY, Mayor of the 
City of Boston, 

General Lafayette. 



ANSWER OF GEN. LAFAYETTE. 

Paris, May 26, 1824. 

Sir — Amidst the new and high marks of benevolence 
the people of the United States and their representatives 
have lately deigned to confer upon me, I am proud and 
happy to recognize those particular sentiments of the citi- 
zens of Boston, which have blessed and delighted the 
first years of my public career, and the grateful sense of 
wnicn has ever since been to me a most valued reward 
and support. I joyfully anticipate the day not very re- 
mote, thank God, when I may revisit the glorious cradle 
of American, and in future I hope of universal liberty. — 
Your so honorable and gratifying invitation would have 
been directly complied with in the case to which you 
are pleased to allude. But while I profoundly feel the 
honor intended by the offer of a national ship, I hope I 
shall incur no blame by the determination I have taken, 
to embark as soon as it is in my power on board a pri- 
vate vessel. Whatever port I first attain, I shall with 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 53 

the same eagerness hasten to Boston, and present its be- 
loved, revered inhabitants, as 1 have the honor to offer 
it to the City council and to you, Sir, with the homage 
of my affectionate gratitude and devoted respect. 

LAFAYETTE. 
To the Mayor of the City of Boston. 

We place upon record the following copy of the 
letter of Gen. La-fa yette to the Hon. Mr. Lloyd, men- 
tioned in a late paper, as a specimen of the neat, flowing, 
and affectionate style of our country's friend. It was 
written by the General in English : — 

" Paris, May 29th, 1824. 

" My Dear Sir — I have, with the most lively sense 
of gratitude, received your kind letter from Washington, 
and anticipate the happy day when it will be in my 
power to present you, under the hospitable roof to 
which you are pleased to invite me, my very affection- 
ate thanks. While 1 have to mourn the loss of many 
intimate friends and companions of my younger days, I 
feel a peculiar and most pleasing gratification to find in 
their posterity sentiments congenial to those with which 
they had honored me. No feelings of that kind can be 
more welcome to me than in the renewal of my old ac- 
quaintance with the darling child of my friend Samuel 
Breck, now become your worthy lady. Present her my 
tender and grateful respects. 

" Whatever be the part of the United States, where 
I will find myself on my attaining the beloved shore, 1 
shall not lose time in my eagerness to revisit the city of 
Boston, and answer the flattering invitation I have late- 
ly received. You do justice to the delight I shall feel 
at the sight of the felicity and prosperity, which has 
been the due reward of a virtuous Revolution, founded 
on the principles of true liberty and self government. — 
With the fond hope to have before long the pleasure to 



«'j4 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

take you by the hand. I beg you my dear Sir, in the 
mean while to accept by best acknowledgement, high 
regard, and sincere attachment." 

LAFAYETTE. 
Hon. Jas. Lloyd. Mem. of the Senate of U. S. 



The Hon. Mr. Lloyd of Boston, had previously invit- 
ed the General, on his arrival in Boston, to reside at his 
mansion during his stay in that city ; and the General 
having signified his acceptance of the invitation, it gave 
occasion for the following report, from the committee of 
the City council, charged with the subject of making 
the necessary arrangements for the reception of Lafay- 
ette in Boston : — 

In the Board of Aldermen, on Thursday, July 22d, 
the Mayor, from the joint committee charged with 
making arrangements for the reception of Gen. Lafay-? 
ette, and to whom was referred the letter of the Hon. 
Mr. Lloyd, relative to his invitation to the General to 
take residence with him, reported, 

That the invitation of our respected fellow citizen to 
General Lafayette was given antecedent to the oc- 
currence of any public expression on this subject, and 
without anticipating the universality of the wish which 
has since appeared, that during Gen. Lafayette's resi* 
donee in the United States, he should be considered as a 
guest of the public, that on being apprized of these views 
and wishes, Mr. Lloyd has expressed his entire willing- 
ness to accruiesce in them, and has received the intima- 
tions of the committee in a manner conformable to their 
expectations. ! Your committee, therefore, have come 
to the determination, in conformity to what they under- 
stood to be the general wish of their fellow citizens, and 
of the City council, that during the residence of General 
Lafayette in Boston, he should be considered as the 
guest of the City ; and are making arrangements accor- 
dingly. 

This report was accepted in both branches. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 55 

In the month of July, the General took passage in the 
ship Cadmus, Captain Allyn,* and embarked from Havre, 
for New- York, accompanied by his son George Wash- 
ington Lafayette, and arrived at the latter place on Sun- 
day the 15th of August : — finding it more convenient to 
disembark in that city, than in Boston. His reception 
in New-York was such as might be expected from a 
grateful people, all anxious to testily their respect for 
him, and evince the high estimation in which they hold 
his character, as well as the affection, and gratitude felt 
for him by every individual of our country. 

It may not be improper here to remark the contrast 
of feeling evinced on his leaving France, and his disem- 
barkation in the City of New- York. To afford the rea- 
der some idea how mean, contemptibly mean, were the 
vexations thrown in the way of the old veteran, and 
those who wished to do him honor, by the little ty- 
rants of the police, we have copied the following ac- 
count from the New-York Commercial Advertiser given 
by a gentleman who was an eye witness of the arrival of 
Gen. Lafayette at Havre, and his embarkation on board 
of the Cadmus. 

" In the one place, the patriotic hero is allowed only 
to quit the country of his birth, and for "which, he has so 
often bled, amid contumely and insult, because through 
evil and through good report, he has shown himself the 
firm, consistent and unwavering friend of rational free- 
dom. In the other, for those very qualities, he is re- 
ceived amid the joyous shouts and acclamations of one 
hundred thousand freemen, which are responded by ten 
millions more — all striving to rival each other in testimo- 
nials of affection, gratitude and esteem !"' 



♦Remarkable coincidence. — We have been informed, that Capt. Robert 
Allyn, (t lie father of Capt. Francis Allyn, who commanded the ship Cadmus 
that brought out General Lafayette,) was an officer of merit in the American 
Infantry under the immediate command of the General, at the *ieg« of York- 
'•-•vvn. 



;>g 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



EMBARKATION OF GEN. LAFAYETTE At 

HAVRE. 

As it was expected that the General would arrive ear- 
ly in the afternoon of the 12th, several merchants, and a 
great number of young men left this at 2 P. M. in car- 
riages, gigs, and on horseback, to go out to meet Monsieur 
Lafayette at Harficur, (fi miles from Havre,) and accom- 
pany him into town. The American Consul, and all the 
American gentlemen, and captains of ships in the har- 
bor, intended also paying the same compliment to the 
General ; but the Sans Prefect notified to the Consul, 
that the Americans must not do so. 

" The road for two miles out of town continued crowd- 
ed from 3 in the afternoon till dark, when no tidings of 
the General having come, the people returned into town, 
where they remained in groups all the evening. Havre 
presented the appearance of a town in danger of an ene- 
my's approach. The guards were doubled at all the po ; 
patroles of soldiers, police men, and gens-d'armes, marched 
about, and prevented the crowd from collecting in any 
one spot. 

" At a quarter past 10, the General arrived in a post 
carriage, with his son and secretary- They were ac- 
companied by the carriages that had gone out from 
Havre, and about one hundred young men on horseback, 
all dressed alike. A strong body of' gens-d'armes escorted 
the cavalcade. On arriving at the entrance to the city, 
the gates were shut, and the guard drawn out with fixed 
bayonets. It w r as then asked if it was the Marquis de 
Lafayette, who was there, and on being answered that it 
was General Lafayette, the gate was opened to admit 
his carriage, and closed immediately, to prevent the en- 
try of any of those who had gone out to meet the 
General. After repeated and unavailing attempts to get 
in, and expostulating with the officer on gunrd, this latter 
assured the gentlemen, on his honour, (hat if they would 
go to the Poste de Pincettes, (a gate at the rear side of 
the city, and a mile from the principal one,) they would 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 57 

be admitted. On presenting themselves at that gate, it 
was closed, and they were desired to go back to the 
principal gate, where they were admitted, two by two, 
at intervals, and the names of several taken. 

" In the mean time, the General proceeded to the 
house of Mr. Philippon (a most respectable merchant,) 
where an elegant dinner was provided, and a large party 
waiting to receive him. In the course of the entertain- 
ment, a stone was thrown by some miscreant in through 
one of the windows, which passed close to the head of 
one of the gentlemen. On the morning of the thirteenth, 
crowds again assembled, to witness the embarkation of 
the General, and the streets presented the same appear- 
ance as the evening before. A party of soldiers was 
drawn up opposite the Cadmus, on the custom house 
quay, where it was supposed the embarkation would 
take place. — Every impediment was used to prevent the 
people from showing any mark of respect. The Cad- 
mus, in consequence of the tide's falling, was obliged to 
haul out into the roads. The General, accompanied by 
a body of gentlemen, arrived, and went on board the 
steam boat, which was previously cleared by order of 
the Police, who would not allow him to embark whilst 
any body of the town was on board. They also hauled 
down the flag belonging to the boat, and would not let it 
be hoisted whilst M. Lafayette was on board. The 
gates were shut, to prevent the people going to the pier 
head to take a last view of the General. However, in 
this their efforts were unavailing, as every boat that 
could be had, was immediately filled, and followed the 
steam boat to the Cadmus, then two miles off A gen- 
d'arm and a police officer went out in the Cadmus, to 
prevent any body but the General and his suite going on 
board. On his coating along 'side, he was received with 
hearty and repeated cheers from the ship, which were 
returned from the boats, and a few persons on shore, who 
had got out and assembled about half a mile from the 
pier (to be out of the way of the military, as there was a 
strong guard at the pier head.) This closed the scene.'* 
8 



58 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

LANDING AT NEW YORK. 

As the ship passed the narrows, a salute was fired 
from Fort Lafayette.* The General, with his suite, was 
landed at Staten Island, where they were met by the 
Vice President of the United States, and conducted to his 
residence. Here he was waited upon by a committee of 
the corporation of the city, and informed of the arrange- 
ments tnat had been made for his reception. 

On .Monday morning, the city was enlivened with the 
sound of festivity, which every where prevailed, pro- 
claiming the pleasure with which his visit was anticipa- 
ted. The battery and every avenue to the river, which 
could afford a vieAv of the passage from Staten Island, 
are represented as having been crowded. Between ten 
and eleven o'clock, the steam ship Robert Fulton, with 
about two hundred United States seamen, decorated with 
national flags, sailed for the island, accompanied by the 
steam boats Chancellor Livingston, Oliver Ellsworth, 
Connecticut, Nautilus, Bellona, and others, all crowded 
with passengers, and enlivened with bands of music. The 
General embarked, at one o'clock, on board the Chancel- 
lor Livingston, where he was introduced to the commit- 
tee, deputed by the corporation, the navy, army, and state 
militia officers, Chamber of Commerce, and Society of 
Cincinnati. This aquatic procession then moved to the 
city, followed in the rear by the ship Cadmus, beautifully 
decorated, towed by two of the steam boats. 

On landing at the Battery, he was saluted by the 
troops, and the long continued cheers of the throng of 
spectators. After resting a few minutes, he was escort- 
ed by the troops, through Broadway to the City Hall, 
where he was received by the Corporation, and formally 
welcomed by the Mayor in the following appropriate 
address : 

"General — In the name of the municipal authorities of 
the city, I bid you a sincere welcome to the shores of a 

* The President directed that General Lafayette should be received at any 
military post which he might visit. " with the honours due to the highest milita 
ry rank in our service." 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE- 59 

country., of whose freedom and happiness you will ever 
be considered one of the most honored and beloved 
founders. 

Your only cotemporaries in arms, of whom indeed but 
few remain, have not forgot, and their posterity will 
never forget, the young and gallant Frenchman who 
consecrated his youth, his talents, his fortune, a J nd his ex- 
ertions to their cause — who exposed his life — who shed 
his blood that they might become free and happy. They 
will recollect with profound emotions, so long as they re- 
main worthy of the liberties they enjoy, the exertions 
you made to obtain them, that you came to them in the 
darkest period of their struggle — that you linked your 
fortune with theirs, when it seemed almost hopeless — 
that you shared in the dangers, privations, and sufferings 
of that bitter struggle, nor quitted them for a moment, 
till it was consummated on the glorious field of York- 
town. Half a century has elapsed since that great 
event, and in that time your name has become as dear to 
the friends, as inseparably connected with the cause of 
freedom, in the old, as in the new world. 

The people of the United States look up to you as to 
one of their most honored parents — the country cher- 
ishes you as one of the most beloved of her sons. I hope 
and I trust, sir, that not only the present, but the future 
conduct of my countrymen, to the latest period of time, 
will, among other slanders, refute the unjust imputation, 
that Republics are always ungrateful to their benefac- 
tors. 

In behalf of my fellow citizens of New-York, and 
speaking the warm and universal sentiments of the whole 
people of the United States, I repeat their welcome to 
our common countrv. 

Permit me to add that the moment of my life, to which 
I shall look back with the greatest pleasure and pride, 
will be that in which it fell to my lot to be an organ for 
expressing, however feebly, a nation's gratitude." 



60 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

The General then replied in a very feeling manner : 

" Sir — While I am so affectionately received by the 
citizens of New York, and their worthy representatives, 
I feel myself overwhelmed with inexpressible emotions. 
The sight of the American shore, after so long an absence, 
the rccolh ytion of the many respected friends and dear 
companions, no more to be found on this land, the plea- 
sure to recognise those who have survived ; this im- 
mense concourse of a free republican population who so 
kindly welcome me, the admirable appearance of the 
troops, the presence of a corps of the National navy, 
have excited sentiments to which no human language can 
be adequate. You have pleased, Sir, to allude to the 
happiest times, the unalloyed enjoyments of my public 
life ; it is the pride of my heart to have been one of the 
earliest adopted sons of America. I am proud also to 
add, that, upwards of 40 years ago, I have been particu- 
larly honored with the freedom of this city. I beg you, 
Mr. Mayor, I beg you, Gentlemen, to accept yourselves, 
and to transmit to the citizens of New York, the homage 
of my profound and everlasting gratitude, devotion and 
respect." 

He then received the marching salute of the troops, 
and was conducted to his apartments at the city hotel, 
where the members of the corporation dined with him. 

In the evening, the front of the city hotel, and several 
other buildings were illuminated. Transparencies were 
also exhibited at the theatres, and rockets thrown up 
at the public gardens, in honor of the occasion. 

On Tuesday, the General repaired to the Governor's 
chamber, in the City Hall, where he received the con- 
gratulations of the citizens generally, on his safe arrival, 
and returned the civilities in a most affectionate manner. 
Sometime since, the General was the means of rescuing 
' from a French prison, a young man, who had forfeited 
his life by some political crime. The cidevant prisoner 
of course left the land of his birth with the greatest posr 
sib!e despatch ; but of his fate, after the period of his es- 
cape, Lafayette was wholly unapprised, until his arrival 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. Gl 

here on Monday, when the identical young Frenchman, 
whose life he had been the means of saving, presented 
himself before his benefactor. 

On Wednesday, he was visited by the Clergy and 
military officers, who had made arrangements to wait on 
him in separate bodies, to testify their respect for the 
worth of this distinguished champion of freedom. 



The following is the original address of the French 
gentlemen of this city to General Lafayette, with his an- 
swer, accompanied with translations : — 

General — Au nom des Francais residant en cette ville, 
nous venons vous feliciter de votre heureuse arrivee sur 
cette terre hospitaliere — sur cette ferre dont le seul aspect 
a du faire naitre en vous les plus vives emotions. En cffet 
vous ne pouvez y faire un pas qu'il n'eveille en vous un 
souvenir — au tour de vous le reconnaissance. Pour une 
ame comme la votre, quelle plus belle jouissance que de 
voir les principes pour les quels vous avez combattu soil 
sur les champs de bataille, soit a la tribune consacres par 
le bonheur d'une nation entiere. L'hommage libre et 
spontane de cette nation genereuse est une lec,on frap- 
pante pourtous les hommes du pouvoir;elle leurapprend 
que si les peuples ou blient, ou ne se rappellent que pour 
les maudire, les noms de ceux qui les opriment, ils hono- 
rent, ils cherissent leurs benefaiteurs et leguent a la re- 
connaissance de leurs neveux les noms des Washington 
et des La Fayette. 

L'emotion que nous eprouvons en vous voyant L'Hotc 
de la nation Americaine, ne peut se decrire ! Dans ce 
sentiment profond nous puisons un voeu digne de vous, 
celuide voir notre belle France assurer la liberte individ- 
uelle par des institutions liberales qui la mettent a'labri 
du caprice et du despotisme. 

AUG. MONNERON, President 
F. CHEGARAY, Secretair. 



#2 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

[Translation^] 

General, — Jn the name o(" the French residing in this 
city, we come to congratulate you on your safe arrival 
Oil this hospitable shore, on this land, the sight of which 
must have excited in you the liveliest emotions, and 
where you will not be able to take a step without awak- 
ening in you some grateful recollection. For a mind 
like yours, what purer pleasure than to behold the prin- 
ciples for which you have' contended, both on the held of 
battle and mi public assemblies, consecrated by the hap- 
piness of a whole nation ! The free and spontaneous 
homage oi' this generous and enlightened people, is a 
striking lesson lor the powerful of the earth. It teaches 
them that if nations forget, or only remember with exe- 
crations, the names of those who oppress them, they 
honour, they cherish their benefactors, and leave, as a 
legacy to the gratitude of their posterity, the names of a 
Washington and a Lafayette. The deep emotions 
which we experience in seeing you the guest of the 
American nation, cannot bo described. From that pro- 
found feeling we derive a sentiment worthy of you — it is 
the desire; of seeing our beautiful France rear and estab- 
lish liberal institutions, securing individual liberty, alike 
beyond the control of intrigue, caprice, or despotism. 
(Signed) AUG. MONNERON, President. 

F. Omic.ARAY, Secretary. 

Messieurs, — ;C*cst un grand bonheur pour nioi, a man 
arrivee sur cettc terre de libcrte, d'y rccevoir les i'cli- 
citations de mes compatriptes ; dejaau moment de mon 
depart, les temoighages de bicncvcillance de la bonne 
ville du Havre, les dcrniers accens du Rivage Francais, 
avaient laisse dans mon ccDur de bicn doux souvenirs. 
J'aime a partager avec vous les emotions que J'eprouve 
dans cct heureux pays Amcricain, auqucl se suis attache 
par tant de liens. Nous aussi, patriotcs de '89, nous 
avons voulu etablir, la dignite, la propriete, le bonheur 
de notrc belle France, sur les bases sacrces de la libcrte, 
et de PEgalite ; malgre nos mecomptes, et nos rualhcurs, 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. C.'i 

lcs contemp;>raius do ccltc opoquc ct nommcmc-ni votre 
respectable president, vous diront que la revolution de 
'89 a grandcmenl amcliore le sort <Ie Pirnmcnse majonte 
dc pcuple. No desesperons pas, Messieurs, de la cause 
de la libcrte ; lcs coeurs Francais bat tent encore bout 
elle, et nous aurons un jour a nous feliciter de la voir 
etablie dans notrc chore patrie. 

[Translation.] 
Gentlemen — It is a great happiness for me, on my arri- 
val in this land of liberty, to receive the congratulations 
of my countrymen. At the moment of my departure, 
the testimonials of the affectionate attachment of the 
good city of Havre, the parting accents from the shore 
of Prance, left in my heart the most grateful emotions. 1 
delight to participate with you the feelings which 1 < \- 

f)crioncc in this nappy American land, to which 1 am 
)Ound by so many ties. We also, patriots of 17JI9, 
sought to establish the national dignity, the security of 
property, and the happiness of our beautiful France, 
upon the sacred foundations of liberty and equality : 
notwithstanding our misfortunes, the eotomporarios of 
that epoch, and especially your respectable president, 
will inform you that the revolution of 1789 has greatly 
ameliorated the condition of an immense majority of the 
people. Do not let us despair, gentlemen, of the cause 
of liberty : it is still dear to the hearts oi Frenchmen, 
and we shall one day have the felicity of seeing it estab- 
lished in our beloved Country. 

The New York Historical Society having elected 
the General and his son as honorary members, he was 
on the appointed day introduced into the hall of the so- 
ciety, and being seated, 

Or. Hossack, the President, rose and delivered the 
following address to him. 

" General Lafayette, — In compliance with the unani- 
mous resolutions of the New York Historical Society, I 
have the gratification to announce to you, your election 
as an honorary member of this institution, and to present 
to you a copy of their transactions. 



t> 1 TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

hi announcing to you the resolution of this Society, 
permit me to observe, that it was the exclusive object in 
the formation of this institution, to collect, preserve, and 
record the materials appertaining to the history of our 
state and country. 

Among these, none have been so precious as those 
relating to the revolution, in which you bore a memora- 
ble and distinguished part, and to whom, under Provi- 
dence, our country is signally indebted for its independ- 
ence, and the prosperity and success that have followed 
in its train. 

In the name of this institution, 1 also tender to you 
their congratulations upon your sale arrival, which affords 
you the opportunity to witness the happy condition of 
that country, in whose behalf the sword of your youth 
was drawn, and personally to bear your testimony to the 
blessings, which have followed the achievements that 
have been accomplished by the united efforts of a Wash- 
ington, and his illustrious companions in arms. General, 
my bosom glows at the association which these events 
bring to your recollection, and every heart in this assem- 
bly throbs with inexpressible emotions at the sight of the 
hero, who this day enters their hall, and confers a lasting 
honor upon the sittings of this society. 

Long, long, sir, may you live to enjoy the homage so 
justly due, and spontaneously ottered, from the hearts of 
a free and grateful people, for the services you have ren- 
dered to this nation, to the world, to liberty, and to the 
ever memorable establishment of the only example on 
earth — a purr unmixed republican form of government. 

The same historic page that records these events, will 
also inscribe, in golden capitals, the immortal names of 
Washington and Lafayette." 

General Lafayette thereupon rose, and replied as fol- 
lows : 

" Sh\ — With the most lively gratitude, I receive the 
honor which the Historical Society of New York have 
conferred, by electing me one of their members. 



'I'Ol/R OF LAFAYETTE. 6i> 

Permit mc also thankfully to acknowledge the flatter' 

ing manner, in which yon arc pleased to announce this 
mark of their benevolence. 

The United States, sir, are the fust nation on the 
records of history, who have founded their constitutions 
upon an honest investigation, and clear definition of their 
natural and social rights. 

Nor can we douht hut that, notwithstanding the com- 
binations made elsewhere by despotism and aristocracy 
against those sacred rights of mankind, immense majori- 
ties, in other countries, shall not in vain observe the hap- 
piness and prosperity of a free, virtuous, and enlightened 
people. 

The President of the Society next addressed M. 
George Washington Lafayette as follows: 

" George Washington Lafayette — In accordance with 
the resolution of the New York Historical Society, I 
have also the honoui to present yon a similar evidence 
of membership with that conferred upon your illustrious 

Sire. 

May you, sir, emulate his talents and his virtues; and 
may the same undaunted spirit, which led him to offer his 
life at the altar of freedom, animate the bosom of the 
son in the same glorious cause." 

To which the following reply was made — 

" Sir — I cannot find words adequate to the feelings 
which 1 experience at this moment. 

Permit me to beg of you to present to the members 
of this society, the homage of my profound respect and 
gratitude, for the unexpected honour at this time confer- 
red upon me." 

The General on this occasion, sat in the chair, present- 
ed to the society by Governeur Morris, and which had 
been occupied by the unfortunate Louis XVI. Ovei 
the chair hung the portrait of the General, taken at the 
age of 29, and contrasted finely the young and chivalrous 
Marquis, with the veteran on whom forty years had 
since been impressed, without diminishing in the least that 
ardent loyj of liberty which glowed in his youthful bosom. 
9* 



^ TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

It is a very pleasing incident on this occasion, mention- 
ed m the New York papers, that the citizens generally 
mounted the revolutionary cockade, (black and white) 
in compliment to General Lafayette. 

Among others, we find the following anecdote, which 
certainly deserves to be repeated and remembered. Mr. 
Hurley, a hatter, having presented to General Lafayette, 
a handsome cocked hat, Mr. George Washington Lafay- 
ette sent to Mr. H's shop to procure a hat for himself. 
This was immediately furnished — but when payment 
was offered, Mr. Hurley declined, saying Ma* all (he hats 
he could supply the Lafayeltes with,' were paid for forty 
years ago ! ! As neat and well-turned a compliment as 
could be paid. 

ADDRESS OF THE BAR OF NEW YORK. 

General Lafayette, having signified his readiness to 
receive the gentlemen of the bar on the 19th inst. they 
assembled on that day, in the Common Pleas Room 
in the City Hall, and proceeded thence to the Sessions 
Room, where they were presented to the General. 
Their number was about thiee hundred, being the largest 
meeting of the profession ever known in this city. Mr. 
Hoffman, their chairman, addressed General Lafayette 
as follows : 

" General — In behalf of the bar of the city of New 
York, now assembled, I tender to you the tribute of their 
respect, and their cordial congratulations, on your return 
to your adopted country. 

Your presence, General, gives renewed vigour to patri- 
otic feelings and national pride ; it recals to the hearts 
of all, the struggles, the privations, the victories of the 
revolution ; and on our minds, it deeply impresses the 
value of those civil institutions, of that republican form 
of government, of that rational freedom we now enjoy, 
and which your valour contributed to achieve. 

You left us, General, at the close of our contest, an 
impoverished people ; our government inefficient, our na- 
tional credit prostrate ; our country bleeding and suffer- 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. G7 

mg from the devastations of war. — You find us an exalted 
nation ; our republic honored and respected by foreign 
powers ; our public credit not surpassed ; our country 
rich and prosperous ; our people free and happy, pro- 
tected by a government of their own choice, and whose 
energy and power are founded in the affections of its 
citizens. What can be more grateful to the heart of the 
patriot, and to him, who, by his sword, his fortune, and 
his sacrifices, assisted in consecrating the principles of our 
independence f We, who daily witness the supremacy 
of the laws, their faithful administration, and the equal 
rights they secure, are emulous to join in the loud acclaim 
which bursts from every corner of the land ; the spon- 
taneous effusion of a nation's heart ! 

But, with us, one remembrance tempers exultation. — 
Would that the feelings of the New York Bar might 
have been uttered by him, now no more, who passed 
with you, through dangers and honour, in the emulation 
of youthful gallantry, and was your associate in the bril- 
liant crowning scene of the war of the revolution. That 
commanding intellect which was so powerfully felt in the 
organization of our government — in the establishment of 
its finances, and in the vindication of the great principles 
of freedom ingrafted in our constitution, equally display- 
ed its superiority in the pursuits of forensic life. Had it 
been permitted to your early friend and companion, to 
present himself the representative of a profession his ta- 
lents and principles adorned, his eloquence would have 
done justice to our grateful sense of your services, and 
to our high respect for your character."' 

THE GENERAL'S ANSWER. 

" Testimonies of esteem from so respectable a body 
as the Bar of New York, are highly flattering to me. I 
most deeply sympathise, gentlemen, in your regrets for 
the friend whose prodigious talents made him as emin- 
ent in your profession as he had been in our military la- 
bours, when he deserved Washington's most intimate 
confidence. The truly republican forms of the Amcri- 



68 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



can constitutions, cannot but endear them to every citi- 
zen of the United States. Yet to any one, who with an 
American heart, has had opportunities of a comparison 
with other countries, the blessings of those institutions 
must appear still more conspicuous. I beg you, sir, and 
all of you, gentlemen, to accept my grateful and affection- 
ate thanks." 



The General, during his tour to New York visited 
the Navy Yard at that place. He was attended by the 
Committee of arrangements ; and a select circle of la- 
dies and gentlemen proceeded in the elegant steam boat 
Chancellor Kent, to visit the Navy Yard at Brooklyn. — 
On his way to the Navy Yard, and on his return, he 
received salutes from the forts and vessels in the har- 
bor. On visiting the Steam Frigate he was much pleas- 
ed with the construction of this formidable and unique 
naval battlement. 

The General was then conducted on board of the 
Washington 74, where refreshments were provided for 
the whole party. After refreshing liimself, he 
took a rapid survey of the ships, and those now build- 
ing, and returned on board of the Kent, when another sa- 
lute was fired by the Constitution. 

In re-passing the Grampus, another salute was fired, 
and the sides were manned, and three cheers given by the 
patriotic crew. 

At one o'clock, the boat again came to the wharf, and 
the general disembarked ; having enjoyed a charming 
excursion, and been much gratified with viewing the 
works, and witnessing the admirable order and discipline 
preserved. 

Notwithstanding the fatigue which the veteran Gen- 
eral must have encountered on Monday, in going through 
the arduous ceremonies of the day, he nevertheless 
found time in the evening to withdraw, and pay a visit 
to the widow of General Hamilton ; to dwell upon the 
recollection of his public services, and condole upon the 
loss sustained in his death, by his country. — There is 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 69 

a delicacy of character in such marks of attention, 
which render thorn truly valuable. 

On Monday, between the hours of 1 2 and 2, the Gen- 
eral received the visits and congratulations of his fellow- 
citizens at the Governor's room, in the city hall. The 
crowd was immense, and many grey hairs, and old sol- 
diers of the revolution, were seen making their way to the 
General. There was no order of -people, no privileged 
communities. Mechanics in their shirt sleeves — laborers, 
generals, and judges, clergymen, and all classes, pressed 
forward to take him by the hand. 

On Thursday evening, the General visited lady Kitty 
Nelson, the daughter oi his old friend and associate in 
arms, General Lord Sterling; Mrs. S. L. Govemeur, the 
daughter of the President; and Mrs. Charles King, 
whftm he had known intimately in France. 

While the escort was passing the United States Ar- 
senal, a salute of 19 guns was fired by Lieut. James 
Monroe. Two of the guns used on this occasion were 
taken at the battle of Yorktown, in which General La- 
fayette was personally engaged, 

On Friday morning at half pa&t seven o'clock, the 
General left the city of New York for Boston. He was 
escorted by a large cavalcade of New York troops as far 
as Byram river, the boundary of the state, where he was 
met by a company of Connecticut troops from the vicini- 
ty of Stamford. 

During the stay of the General in New York, he re- 
ceived the following letter from the Mayor of Philadel- 
phia. 

Philadelphia, July 31, 1824. 
To General Lafayette. 

Sir. — It is with the utmost pleasure I fulfil the duty 
enjoined upon me by an unanimous vote of the 
councils of Philadelphia, in inviting you to become the 
Guest of the city. The enclosed resolutions faithfully 
represent the feelings of all classes of our citizens. By 
all, you are anxiously expected, and to all, your presence 



70 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

will be most welcome. In their name, therefore, and 
on their behalf, I beg you, Sir, to gratify this universal 
desire; and give to the city of Philadelphia, a participa- 
tion in the joy which your arrival in America will pro- 
duce. 

To me, personally, Sir, it will ever remain a subject 
of pride and pleasure that it has fallen to my lot to be 
the medium of this communication. 
1 have the honor to be, 

With the greatest respect, 

Your most obedient servant, 

JOSEPH WATSON, 
Mayor of the city of Philadelphia. 

New York, August 18, 1824. 

Sir, — With the most profound gratitude 1 have re- 
ceived the kind flattering resolutions of the honorable 
councils of the city of Philadelphia, and the letter by 
which you have been pleased to transmit them, They 
could not but increase the anxious desire 1 feel to revisit 
the illustrious city, where so glorious scenes of the revolu- 
tion have taken place, and where 1 have passed so many 
happy days. I am now going on a previous engagement 
towards the eastern part of the Union, to return to New 
York in the first fortnight of September, and I do antici- 
pate the delight I shall enjoy to pay my thankful, affec- 
tionate respects about the middle of the same month, to 
the citizens of Philadelphia, when I will have the highly 
valued gratification to tell you in person, Sir, how res- 
pectfully and gratefully 1 have the honor to be, 
Your most obedient servant, 

(Signed) LAFAYETTE. 

His Honor Joseph Watson, Esq. Mayor of the city of 
Philadelphia. 

He arrived at Harlaem about half past nine o'clock, 
and stopped for half an hour at the hotel on the bridge. 
As he approached, a salute was fired by the light artille- 
ry of the second regiment ; and he was greeted by loud 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 7] 

cheers on all sides from the inhabitants of Harla?m, who 
were assembled to welcome him. At ten o'clock, the 
cavalcade of citizens having taken leave of him, the car- 
riages were sent on before, and the general walked 
over the bridge, accompanied by the committee : he 
paused for some minutes under a tree, on the other side, 
and received the congratulations of the residents of Mor- 
risania ; among whom we observed several ladies, on 
horseback, tastefully mounted, who paid their respects 
with a grace, elegance, and feeling, which must have 
been as highly gratifying to the general, as it was inter- 
esting to the spectators. 

Some trifling alterations being required in the springs 
of the travelling carriage, the General proceeded on in 
the barouche, accompanied by Alderman Doughty and 
Mr. Hone. Every cottage and farm-house, near enough 
to the road for its inhabitants to be apprized of his near 
approach, was emptied of its inmates, who lined the wav- 
side, their countenances gleaming with the most anima- 
ted curiosity, while they bowed with respect and grati- 
tude. The hardy sons of toil, " leaving their ploughs in 
the half-furrowed field, and casting aside their implements 
of husbandry " at the sound of " the General is coming,'' 
were seen rushing to the road-side, waving their hats 
with enthusiasm, and giving vent to their feelings in 
shouts and huzzas. And this continued, not for ten or 
twenty miles, but throughout the whole of this day's 
route. At West Farms, at West Chester, and East 
Chester, the inhabitants were assembled en masse ; and 
the waving of handkerchiefs and scarfs, amidst the most 
animated plaudits and cheering, gave the General a 
heartfelt assurance of welcome. The cavalcade of citi- 
zens on horseback continued to receive recruits at every 
town. All was animation and gaiety, and in strict accord- 
ance with the spirit of the occasion. 

At New Rochelle, the scene was brilliant in the ex- 
treme. The balcony and the roof of the Post Office, and 
of Capt. Peler's hotel, on the opposite side of the street, 
at which house the General stopped, were filled with la- 



/II TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

dies. The same demonstrations of joyous welcome were 
here displayed from all. The shouts of the people, the 
roaring of the cannon, the men-)' peal of the hells, the 
music of a full hand, llic eager, yet respectful anxiety of 
the people to shake him by the hand, and bid him wel- 
come, must have made as gratifying an impression on the 
mind of the General, as any reception which had gone 
before. Here more than one old seventy-sixer* 

11 Who fought and bled in freedom's cause, 11 

came to visit their fellow soldier. Do you remember, 
General, said one, who began the attack al Brandy wine? 
u Aha ! Yes — it was Maxwell, with the Jersey troops !" 
So it was ! So it was ! replied the delighted interroga- 
tor. Well, I was with his brigade ! A warm clasp of 
the hand was all the utterance to feelings which were 
meet reward for a life spent in the cansc of liberty. 

At Mamaroneck, the General was received with the 
same enthusiastic welcome. A salute was fired by the 
inhabitants, the bells were rung, and an excellent band of 
music continued playing our national airs. 

At Rye, relays of horses were provided, and the Gen- 
eral, his suite, and the committee of arrangements, dined 
together at Penlicld's Hotel. The music came on from 
Mamaroneck, and played during dinner. 

At Saw Pits, the General was received with every 
demonstration of gratitude and joy ; a salute was fired, 
and a large number of persons joined the escort to Byram 
River, where the General was met by a Connecticut 
troop of horse. Here a salute of thirteen guns was (ired 
by the inhabitants, and the General, with the united es- 
cort of New York and Connecticut troops, and a large 
cavalcade of ladies and gentlemen, proceeded on to Put- 
nam's Hill at Greenwich, or Horsencck, as it is general- 
ly called, in allusion to Putnam's remarkable feat. Here 
was a " heart uplifting scene/' The General left his 
carriage at the hotel, and walked down the hill, accom- 

f>anied by the committee, and the Rev. Mr. Lewis, and 
lis son. The road is here cut through a solid rock. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 73 

Which rises about twenty feet perpendicularly on each 
side. Hundreds of ladies, amongst whom we observed 
not a small portion of beauty and fashion, thronged the 
hill on one side, while the gentlemen occupied the other. 
The light horse from New York were stationed in the 
field on the tight of the old church, which has been 
standing since the revolution. As the General passed 
down the hill, they fired a national salute of twenty-four 
guns. From one side of the rock, to the other, over the 
road, a rural arch was thrown, composed of pine branch- 
es and wild briar, and decorated with roses ; it was de- 
signed by the ladies, and bore evidence of the most deli- 
cate taste and fancy. Pendant from the centre of the 
arch, was a shield bearing the following inscription : 

" This arch, on the hill rendered memorable by the 
brave General Putnam, was erected in honor of the il- 
lustrious General Lafayette, the early and distin- 
guished champion of American liberty, and the tried 
friend of Washington." 

The centre of the arch was surmounted by an old 
revolutionary flag, mangled and torn in the battle's 
fiercest rage. 

" Yet, freedom ! yet, thy banner torn, but flying-, 
Streams like a Itiunder-cloud against the wind." 

It was the very banner that waved over the heads of 
our heroes at the battle of White Plains ; it carried the 
mind back to the times that tried men's souls, and every 
soul that there contemplated it, felt that it could stand the 
trial. The Rev. Mr. Lewis read the inscription to the 
General ; told him the history of the flag, and pointed 
out to him the exact spot of the heroic exploit of the 
brave General Putnam. The General expressed him- 
self highly gratified and interested. On parting, the 
reverend and patriotic pastor said, " General, America 
loves you !" « And I, sir," said the General, " most 
truly love America !" 

Col. Arcularius and his troop, now took leave of the 
General, and he proceeded on in the travelling carriage 
with Aldermen Wyckoff and Zabriskie, followed by the 
10 



74 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

rest of the committee, and his son, who had overtaken? 
him at Rye. 

At the town of Greenwich, another salute was fired, 
and the same demonstrations of welcome continued along 
the road. The General arrived at Stamford about seven 
o'clock, and alighted at Major Davenport's, where he 
remained for about an hour. 

" At the house of the Hon. John Davenport, of Stam- 
ford, the General remained half an hour, and received 
the visits of many hundreds of persons of both sexes. 
A salute was fired, the bells rung, and this beautiful 
town, with its gay inhabitants, particularly distinguished 
for many handsome women, exhibited all the life and 
gaiety of a city. Hundreds of ladies and gentlemen for 
ten miles round visited this town, to see and pay their 
respects to Lafayette. 

" The Connecticut troop which met the General at 
the line, accompanied him through Stamford, and pro- 
ceeded until they met the escort provided further east ; 
and many citizens of Stamford set out on horseback to at- 
tend him to the next town. 

' 4 On the whole route the bridges and gates were free 
to all passengers. 

" No accidents on the road except one : a gentleman 
had his leg broken at Harlami. 

" The General travelled so fast, that many persons 
could not get a sight of him in their own towns; but 
many of them, on learning that he was to stop at the next, 
set off in haste to overtake him; and, in some instances, 
■where they missed him in the next town, still pressed 
forward on foot. A great number of lads, many without 
hats or shoes, walked and run, for eight miles to see hirm 

The following anecdotes are gleaned from various 
sources, but uresumed to be correct. 

" A little Yankee urchin on the road, who was running 
with all his might, to reach the next village, in hopes of 
seeing the General, stopped and inquired of me if the 
Markiss Lafayette was going to dine there. Feelii^ •. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 75 

little waggish at the moment, I told him that General 
'Lafayette carried his dinner in "his pocket, and that it 
was bread and cheese. The little fellow's eyes were as 
big as a large knot hole—' Ay!' said he, ' I guess he aynt 
going to dine on bread and cheese neither, — we can give 
him something in our State better than bread and 
cheese — i guess, I know.' And on he pushed at his ut- 
most speed." 

" Feeling a little disposed to joke with an old lady at 
one of the turnpike gates, a gentleman remarked, ' Well 
madam, I suppose you are very glad General Lafayette 
has come, as you must have made oceans of money today 
at the gates ?' — The old lady felt indignant at the re- 
mark. ' Sir,' she replied, 'you must know that the Gen- 
eral and his friends go through this gate free of toll; and 
I should like to have him pass a thousand times /' ' Oho, 
then your gates are free now ?' ' Yes,' replied the Con- 
necticut dame, without a moment's hesitation, ' for such 
men as Lafayette, but not for those who come so Jar be- 
hind him.'' This last remark quickly brought a York 
shilling out of my pocket for toll, and as you may well 
suppose, I hastened to get out of her sight, and the 
yange of her wit" 

" When General Lafayette was receiving the congrat 
ulations of his fellow citizens, with his peculiar liberality, 
a youth approached him and taking him by the hand, 
he exclaimed, " Sir, my father and my mother have 
taught me from my childhood to lisp your name with 
reverence and affection." The General, much affected, 
clasped him in his arms, and said, " O yes, you are all 
my children." 

" It is impossible to travel through the towns of Con- 
necticut and not feel a part of the enthusiasm which 
pervaded all classes. Even the poor lads who drove 
the carriages entered fully into the common feeling, and 
.seemed proud of their honors. They wore silk ribbons 



76 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

fastened to the button holes of their waistcoats, by way 
of distinction ; and while waiting to receive their illustri- 
ous passengers, usually became persons of no inconsidera- 
ble interest and attention with the hundreds who stood 
around. " Behave pretty now, Charley," said the driver 
of Lafayette's coach to one of his horses," behave pretty, 
Charley — you are going to carry the greatest man in the 
world." 

The following dialogue between two boys is said to have 
been over heard by a gentleman previous to the Gener- 
al's entering New Haven. 

1st Boy. — Are'nt you going to see Lafayette ? 

2d Boy. — Who the 'hio is Lafayette ? 

1st Boy. — He is a Frenchman and a fighter. 

2d Boy.— Who did he fight ? 

1st Boy. — The British Regulars. I've heard Pa' tell 
how he came here in the revolutionary war, and help- 
ed to fight for this country. 

2d Boy. — Did he ? — then by golly, 1*11 go and see him. 



"While stopping in a country town, a gentleman enter- 
ed into conversation with one of the citizens of Connec- 
ticut, in appearance a very poor man. He seemed agi- 
tated, and struggling hard to relieve his mind by conver- 
sation — reverting to the conduct of the General during 
our revolutionary war. He began to praise him, but he 
could hardly pronounce his name without a sob of grati- 
tude. The tears seemed ready to start, but were re- 
pressed by the old soldier's self control. He changed 
the subject for a moment, but it would not do. He was 
thinking of nothing but Lafayette. " I have heard," he 
remarked, " that the General is poor ; but I hope and 
trust he won't die so." To sound his feelings a little, I 
remarked, " there are many poor men who are cared 
little for — what if the General should come to want, do 

? r ou think there is any body in Connecticut that would re- 
ieve him?" " Yes I know there is," he exclaimed. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 77 

# more'n ten thousand on 'em. As poor as I am, I 
should love to have him come and live with me all his 
life— God bless him !" 

The General arrived at Bridgeport at 12 o'clock on 
Friday evening, where he reposed a few hours, and set 
off again at 7 o'clock on Saturday morning for New Ha- 
ven. He was expected to have entered that city the 
previous evening, and great preparations were made for 
his reception in splendid style. But such were the 
crowds to see the General, that his arrival at Bridgeport, 
the place of dining, was delayed until half past 11 o'clock, 
P. M. A deputation was waiting at Stratford, besides a 
comoany of troop 5 miles further on, to escort the Gen- 
eral to New Haven, where the city authorities had made 
arrangements to receive him in the evening, under the 
blaze of a grand illumination. The citizens waited un- 
til near 12, when, despairing of seeing him that evening, 
and knowing he would not remain the succeeding even- 
ing, the signal for illumination (two guns) was fired, and 
the most splendid scene exhibited ever witnessed in that 
city. 

ARRIVAL AT NEW HAVEN. 

On Saturday morning, the General was met, about 
five miles from the city, at the house of Mrs. Woodruff, 
on the Milford road, by the company of horse guards, un- 
der the command of Major Huggins, and entered the 
city about ten o'clock, under their escort, accompanied by 
his son, George Washington Lafayette, M. Le Vasseur, 
his secretary, and a committee of the corporation of 
New York, appointed to attend him on his way to Bos- 
ton. On arriving at the intersection of George and 
Church streets, he was received with three hearty 
cheers by the citizens, which were re-echoed and repeat- 
ed by the people along the lines, to Morse's Hotel, where 
the General, with his suite, was received by the Mayor 
and other public authorities, Governor Wolcott and other 
distinguished gentlemen, amidst loud and unceasing ac- 
clamations. 



"8 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

The General was conducted to the room of the court 
of common council, then in session. The Mayor wag 
presented to him by the Hon. Mr. Edwards, and addres- 
sed him as follows : 
<! General Lafayette, 

Sir, — The authorities of New Haven can better feel 
than express their delight in welcoming your arrival. 

A generation has passed away since our fathers saw 
you* encamped in yonder fields. They beheld your 
merits, and hastened to enrol your name as a fellow citi- 
zen, t 

The voice of history has made us all familiar with 
your services and your sufferings in the cause of liberty 
in the old world and ia the new. Success has here 
crowned your exertions. We and our children will 
recognize the ever increasing debt of gratitude due to 
him who has devoted a long life of action and glory, to 
principles of rational liberty and equality, teaching peo- 
ple and rulers that governments were made for men, and 
not men for governments. The countless millions of 
freemen, yet unborn, who will soon overspread this great 
continent, will repeat to successive generations, the 
name of Lafayette. They will ascribe to the man now 
before us, and to his associates in council and in arms, 
•their independence and happiness. 

As for ourselves, Citizen General, our joy is complete, 
•in viewing as our guest the philanthropic seldier and 
statesman of France and America, the friend and compan- 
ion of Washington." 

The General was then introduced by the mayor to 
the aldermen, to each common-council man, and the 
clerk, in succession. 

The Governor was in the opposite room, and was 
coming to greet him. He had left his quarters at Mr. 
Dexter's, preceded by the guards, and the sheriff of the 

* The General wa9 sometime encamped in this town in 1778, with a body 
of troops. 

| In 1785, the freedom of the city wa9 presented to Marquis de la Fayette, 
and some other distinguished Frenchmen, among whom were the Duke de la 
Rochefocault, La Comtesse Sophie d'Houditot, Marquis de St. Lambert, Mar- 
quis de Condorcet, Le Prince de Beauveau, &c. &c. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 79 

county, and was accompanied by the Judges, Peters and 
Bristol, of the supreme court, and by his acting aids, Col. 
Oliver S. Wolcoit, his son, and Col. William Gracie of 
New York, his son-in-law. On being presented, the 
Governor took the General by the hand, and made the 
following address. 

" General, — I congratulate you on your arrival in the 
United States, and I bid you welcome to the good old re- 
publican state of Connecticut, where you will find none 
but sincere friends, who feel grateful for your distinguish- 
ed services in favour of their country, and admirers of 
your eminent exertions in support of their principles both 
here and in Europe." 

To this address, the General returned an affectionate 
and eloquent reply. 

Here he was met by the veterans of the revolution, the 
friends and associates of other days, several of whom he 
recognized and embraced as his companions in arms, and 
all were received with a brotherly and fond regard. Af- 
ter receiving the respects and congratulations of the citi- 
zens, together with a large number of ladies, and many 
gentlemen from various parts of the country, some of 
whom came a distance of forty miles to see him, he was 
saluted by the various military corps drawn up in front of 
the hotel, who passed him in review, attended by a di- 
vision of the students of Yale College, in procession ; af- 
ter which, he took breakfast with the mayor, aldermen, 
&c. with about one hundred invited guests, which wa* 
handsomely served up by Mr. Morse, at the expense of 
the city. 

While at breakfast, the gentlemen at the table were 
surprised to hear that the rooms just left by them were 
occupied by their wives and other ladies. All the par- 
lours in the house were full and overflowing with crowds 
of the fair sex, who sent a deputation to the mayor to de- 
mand the honour of an admission to the levee of the 
. General. Such a call was not to be refused. The duties 
of the table being ended, a Frenchman, a soldier, and a 
gentleman could not but be at the service of the ladies. 



BO TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

More than three hundred with their children had the 
pleasure of a particular introduction. He was surprised 
and delighted at this array of beauty and grace. 

Alter breakfast, he was taken in a barouche to the 
public green, where the troops being formed in line un- 
der the command of Major Granniss, he passed them in 
review, and received the usual military honors. He 
then visited the residences of Nathan Smith, Esq. the 
Hon. David Daggett, and David C. Deforest, Esq. at 
each of which he remained a few minutes, and proceed- 
ed in a barouche around the green to the Colleges, where 
lie was received by the students drawn up in two lines 
extending to the Lyceum. Here he received the con- 
gratulations of the President and Faculty of the College, 
and visited the Library and Mineralogical Cabinet. — 
From hence he passed around the new burial ground to 
the residence of Professor Silliman, where he paid a short 
visit to the widow of the late venerable Governor Trum- 
bull. Returning by the green, he passed the troops, 
who tired a feu de joie, and returned to the Hotel. 

About three o'clock, the General took his departure, 
on the lower road, by East Haven, Guilford, Saybrook, 
and Lyme, to New London, on his way to Boston, es- 
corted by the troops and civil authorities as far as East 
Haven, where he pointed out the residence of the late 
Rev. Mr. Street, where he had been hospitably enter- 
tained forty-five years ago, and expressing a desire to see 
his descendants, was received by his children and grand- 
children, and other ladies and gentlemen of the town. 

Here he took leave of the escort from the city, and 
proceeded on his journey, attended by a detachment of 
cavalry from Branford. 

Although in New-Haven more than four hours, he 
was standing all the while, excepting at the breakfast, 
beside his short visit here. No such splendid mansion, 
with its brilliant furniture, was here in '78. From the 
portico in front, he surveyed the beautiful Green full of 
people, with the long line of troops, the buildings around, 



tour of lafayette. 81 

ttnd the fine foliage of the trees. A lively sensibility at 
once appeared. He was struck with the beauty of the 
scene. Such another prospect can hardly be presented 
in America. 

The General was much gratified with his visit to the 
University. He did not anticipate such an establish- 
ment. He has in France been the active friend of 
science, and of universal instruction. So great has been 
his zeal for teaching every child, that the ultra Royal- 
ists have charged him with a design to corrupt all the 
youth of the nation by infusing republican notions. 

The General thanked them for the very kind recep- 
tion they gave him. He passsd through this town in 
1778. He was now most agreeably surprised at the 
great improvements since made. To see such very fine 
troops had given him a very particular pleasure ; but 
above all he should always have thepro foundest sense of 
the cordial welcome given him here. Pressing his hand 
on his breast, he said, he was delighted with the man- 
ner of his reception by every kind of person. 

In East Haven, a great number of men, women and 
children had assembled to behold the General as he 
passed, he alighted from his carriage and shook hands 
with all — related several incidents of old times — point- 
ed out the house of Mr. Street, where he had been hos- 
pitably entertained forty-five years ago, when the army 
under his command was encamped in that place. 

At Guilford he was received with a cordial welcome. 
Three companies of military were paraded on the Green 
and saluted him with artillery and small arms. Crowds 
pressed around him, and among them some who remem- 
bered him in " times that tried men's souls," anxious to 
offer their hands. He stopped merely long enough to 
receive and return the gratulations of a great part of 
the inhabitants, and continued his journey to Killing- 
worth ; where he arrived about candle lighting, and re- 
mained about an hour receiving similar attentions from 
the military and citizens, and passed on to Savbrook 
11 



82 TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

whore he lodged. Here the inhabitants had made pre- 
parations for receiving him in the handsomest manner ; 
and as he was expected much earlier than he arrived, 
the table was spread and decorated, and a feast provid- 
ed in a manner suitable to the occasion. In. the morning 
he was waited on by the inhabitants, and shown every 
mark of respect that gratitude could suggest, and at half 
past six he took his departure for New-London, and was 
met in the vicinity by the committee of that town at 10 
o'clock, where he alighted under a salute of 24 guns 
from Fort TrumbulL Gen. William North, an old com- 
panion in arms, conducted him to the rooms assigned him, 
when he received the hands of the thousands that crowd- 
ed to see him. 

The citizens who wished it, Avere then introduced to 
the General, and from the cordial and polite manner in 
which they were received, were satisfied that the man 
whom they delighted to honor, was richly deserving of 
the respect shown him. Public service having now 
commenced, out of reverence for the day, and the feel- 
ings of the people with whom he dwelt, the General re- 
paired to the Presbyterian meeting house, where the 
Rev. Mr. McEvven officiated, and thence to St. James 7 
Church, were service was performed by the Rev. Mr. 
Judd. Afterwards, he called to pay his respects to 
Madam Huntington, the widow of the late Gen. Jed. 
Huntington, and Madam Perry, the mother of the late 
Commodore ; when he returned to his quarters, and 
for about an hour devoted his time to receive the saluta- 
tions of ladies and gentlemen, who called on him. At 
three, dinner was announced, and he was seated in a small 
circle of friends, among whom were Gen. Wm. North, 
Gen. Ebenezer Huntington, Gen. Burbeck, and Doctor 
John R. Watrous, who were his companions when his 
noble and generous mind first put. forth its energies in 
the cause of our country. After a short sitting, in sweet 
and patriotic sympathy, and friendly intercourse, he 
arose and departed with his suite, escorted by the com- 
mittees of this place and Norwich, for that city. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 83 

On the General's arrival in Norwich, a national salute 
was fired. The concourse of people, gathered in the 
different houses and along the street from the wharf 
bridge to the hotel, to get a view of their Nation's Guest, 
was immense. On his alighting at the hotel, a perti- 
nent address from the Mayor was delivered, to which he 
returned an appropriate and feeling reply. 

After this ceremony, hundreds, and perhaps we may 
add thousands, eagerly pressed forward to be presented, 
congratulating themselves on the pleasure they had in 
seeing their country's benefactor in this free and happy 
nation. 

In the evening, the General and suite, together with 
the city officers and the committee of arrangements, sat 
down to supper. During the repast, reiterated cheers 
were frequently ascending from the populace in the 
street ; to each of these bursts of enthusiasm the Gen- 
eral arose and presented himself at the window, where 
the admiring multitude as often echoed it. After supper, 
the General and suite left for Plainfield, accompan- 
ied by the deputation and an escort of citizens. The 
deputation continued with him to Rhode Island line, 
where he was met by the committee from Providence. 

As the procession left this city, a -national salute was 
fired amid continued peals of the bells. On his arrival 
at Jewett City, the whole village was illuminated, as 
were all the houses between there and Plainfield, and 
also in the latter village, although they had, like ourselves, 
but a short notice of the General's approach. 

He continued his tour, and lodged in Plainfield on Sun- 
day night. On Monday forenoon, he entered Providence, 
under the discharge of artillery, and the ringing of bells, 
where he was welcomed by thousands. 

RECEPTION AT PROVIDENCE. 

Early on Monday morning, the troops and citizens 
were in readiness to meet the General, and the western 
road was lined with citizens, crowding towards the point 
where the reception was to take place. Every horse 



84 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE, 

and vehicle in the town appeared to be in requisition, 
and the windows on the streets through which the Gen- 
eral was to pass, were thronged with females, waiting to 
greet the Nation's Guest. The Governor's Aids pro- 
ceeded as far as Fish's Hotel, where they met the Gen- 
eral, and were introduced by the committee who had at- 
tended him fropi Connecticut. Colonel Mallett, the 
senior Aid, in a short address, expressed the satisfaction 
they felt at the honor of the introduction, and the earn- 
est wish of the Executive to welcome the General in 
his own, and in the name of the state : to which the 
General replied in a warm and concise manner. He was 
then conducted to the carriage provided lor him, by the 
Governor's Aids, and accompanied by them, until he 
reached the line of the town, where the military were 
drawn up, and an immense concourse of citizens on foot, 
mounted, and in carriages, were waiting his arrival. 

The following is the order of procession in which they 
moved. 

Marshal. 
Strangers and citizens mounted on horseback, two abreast. 

Strangers and citizens, on foot, two abreast. 
Officers and Students of Brown University, on foot, two 

abreast. 

Second Marshal, Colonel Mumford. 

Music. 

Battalion of Infantry. 

Cadets, Lieut. Col Greene. 

Second Light Infantry Company, Capt. Meyer. 

First Light Infantry Company, Captain Ftathbonc. 

Volunteers, Lieut. Col. Babcock. 

Aid. Chief Marshal, Col. Blodget Aid. 

Committee of Arrangements on horseback. 

Members of the Town Council in carriages. 

Marshal. 

C GENERAL LAFAYETTE. > 

Marshal. < In an open Carriage drawn by > Marshal, 

{ four greys. y 

General's family in a carriage. 
Society of Cincinnati in Carriages. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 1J5 

Officers of the Army and Navy of the United States, in 

carriages. 
Officers of the Government of the United States, in car- 
riages. 
Major General and suite, in uniform and mounted.. 
Brigadier General and aid, in uniform and mounted. 
Field and staff Officers of the second brigade, in uniform 
and mounted. 

Strangers of distinction in carriages. 
. . . ^ 

Civil, Judicial, Municipal, Officers, Societies and citizens 

in carriages. 

Marshal. 

The town-council and their associates, received the 
General about twelve o'clock, at the line of the town, 
where he alighted, and was addressed in an appropriate 
manner by Colonel Carlisle, acting president of the 
council. To which address the General verbally and 
gracefully replied. 

He was then received with military honors, and con- 
ducted to (he barouche prepared ioi his reception, and 
on being seated, was greeted with a spontaneous burst of 
feeling from the immense concourse of spectators. The 
procession was then put in motion, agreeably to the or- 
der of arrangements ; and when formed, extended more 
than a mile. The General, uncovered, rode alone in the 
barouche, drawn by four white horses, bestowing 
through the whole march, the most complaisant smiles 
and greetings on all around ; shaking, most cordially, the 
hands of those who crowded around his carriage, and took 
advantage of every pause in the procession, to obtain the 
high honour of a grasp of the hand of Lafayette ; a cir- 
cumstance which every citizen will be proud hereafter to 
tell his children. 

The artillery, stationed on the Dexter training ground, 
pealed their welcome as he passed, and the General soon 
entered the populous part of the town. In passing- 
through Westminster-Street, and until he arrived at the 
State-House, he was welcomed by that most expressive 
token of affectionate interest, the waving of white hand- 



86 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

kerchiefs, by the lair hands of the ladies, who crowded 
every building from which they could obtain a view of 
this distinguished personage. Many females, we observ- 
ed, in the excess of their feeHngs, suspended this token 
of welcome, to gaze more intently at the object, whom 
they appeared alone to see in the whole procession, and 
many a line eye was wet wilh the gush of a tear, which 
the rush of so many sublime and sympathetic emotions 
sent warm from the heart. 

On arriving in front of the state house, the General 
alighted, and Avas received in a peculiarly interesting 
manner. The poplar avenue, leading to the building, 
Was lined on each side with nearly two hundred misses, 
arrayed in while, protected by a file of soldiers on each 
side, and holding in their hands bunches of flowers, 
which (as the General proceeded up the avenue, sup- 
ported by the Governor's aids,) they strewed in his 
path, at the same time waving their while handker- 
chiefs. The General afterwards expressed the peculiar 
a lid high satisfaction he took in this simple and touching 
arrangement. 

On reaching the landing of the stairs, ihe General turn- 
ed toward the multitude, and at the same moment the 
veteran Captain Stephen Olncy, (who served under the 
General repeatedly, and was the first to force the ene- 
my's works at York town, in which he was seconded, at 
another point, almost simultaneously, by Lafayette) ap- 
proached the General, who instantly recognized his old 
companion in arms, and (unbraced and kissed him, m the 
most earnest and affectionate manner. A thrill wenl 
through the whole assembly, and scarcely a dry eye was 
to be found among the spectators ; while the shouts of 
the multitude, at first suppressed, and then uttered in a 
manner tempered by the scene, evinced the deep feeling 
and proud associations it had excited. 

The General was 1 hen conducted to the senate cham- 
ber, where he was appropriately introduced to his ex- 
cellency, the members of the committee, town council, 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 87 

After this ceremony, he came below, and there, in the 
most familiar manner, shook the hands of a number of 
ladies and gentlemen. — Among the rest, the ven- 
erable WilKam Russell, now in his 85th year, was 
introduced to him. The General shook both the vete- 
ran's hands in a most affectionate manner, and in an an- 
nunciation, that slightly marked a foreign accent, said, he 
was extremely happy to take his old friend by the hand 
once more, as it recalled to his memory the delightful 
associations of his youth. Mr. Russell appeared at first 
scarcely to comprehend the scene, but in a moment, as if 
the whole had rushed upon his recollection, he exclaimed 
in a voice broken by age, and still more subdued by 
feeling, " Oh my dear Marquis, how happy I am to see 
you once more ! — I remember well the time I served 
under you as a volunteer on Rhode Inland !" The Gen- 
eral was evidently touched, and on this, as on several oth- 
er occasions, the tear started to his eye. He then pro- 
ceded on foot to the accommodations provided for him, 
and after entering the hotel, appeared on the Piazza, and 
was greeted in the warmest manner. For nearly two 
hours, he stood in his apartment, and in the most affable 
manner, received the congratulations of every individual 
who chose to be introduced to him. 

After dinner, in company with the town council, &c. 
the General prepared to proceed on his journey. 

At about half past four, the troops, (at the particular 
request of General Lafayette, who expressed his admira- 
tion of their discipline, and fine military appearance) were 
drawn up for review, in a line extending on the street to- 
ward Pawtuckct. The General then proceeded on foot, 
and was greeted, on entering the street, with the same 
joyous acclamations. Supported by the arm of the Gov- 
ernor, he walked in front of the line of troops, stopping 
to shake hands with all the principal officers. On 
arriving at the extreme wing lie halted,, and his carriage 
was drawn up for his reception. Here the chief marslnd 
expressed very appropriate!}, the gratitude of himself 
and his fellow citizens for the honour conferred on the 



otf TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

town by his presence, and assured the General, (who 
expressed his particular thanks to the chief marshal for 
his kind attentions, and his warmest and most respectful 
gratitude to the people for the highly gratifying testimo- 
nials of aifection they had shown him,) that the obliga- 
tion was entirely on the side of himself and his fellow 
citizens. 

His Excellency also addressed the General, and. assur- 
ing him of his high consideration for his character, and 
the peculiar satisfaction he had enjoyed in the interview, 
took his leave for the present, hoping to have the honor 
of soon paying his respects to him again. The General, 
with much feeling, reiterated his grateful acknowledge- 
ments to his excellency and to the citizens, and assured 
him he should soon embrace another opportunity to visit 
the town. — He also begged the Governor to convey his 
most respectful thanks to all who had done him so 
much honor. He then entered the carriage, accompa- 
nied by his excellency, Col. Bowen, and Zachariah Allen, 
Esq. ; and amid the cheers of the populace, left the 
town.* 

His Excellency Governor Eustis, having directed his 
aids with carriages to be in readiness at the boundary of 
the State of Massachusetts, to receive the General on 
his arrival at Pawiuckct, he was met by them at that 
place about t> of the clock, P. M. He had then nearly 
i'orty miles to ride that night, in order to redeem his 
pledge to be in the vicinity of Boston on Tuesday morn- 

At 8 o'clock, he reached Fuller's, where he was met 
by a large battalion of troops, who saluted him. It was 
approaching midnight before he reached Dedham ; 
where the most conspicuous buildings were illuminated, 
and a great number of ladies and citizens were introduced 
to him. On passing Roxbury, after 1 o'clock, he was 
accompanied by a numerous escort of citizens of the 
county, and received a salute of artillery, with rockets, 

* The General, on being asked if he was not fatigued wi'h his exertions, 
prompt!) replied, that he experienced too much pleasure, to find any time for 
fatigue. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 89 

and arrived at the residence of Governor Eustis about two 
o'clock. The meeting of the General and the Governor 
was extremely interesting. They embraced each other 
for some minutes ; the Goremor exclaiming, " / am the 
happiest man that ever lived." — The General thus re- 
deemed his pledge. 



ARRIVAL AND RECEPTION OF LAFAYETTE 
IN BOSTON, 1734. 

It may interest the reader to transcribe the particu- 
lars of the reception of General Lafayette in Boston in 
1784, before we proceed to give a detailed account of 
his present visit. This was, on his second visit to the 
United States ; and it will be perceived that the affec- 
tions af the people were not then less strong towards 
him, than at the present time.* 

Boston, October 18, 1784. 

On Friday last, arrived in this town, the Marquis de 
Lafayette, Major General in the late American army, 

At Watertown he was met by the officers of the ar- 
my, who had provided an elegant dinner on the occasion. 
His Excellency the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, 
the Council, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of 
the House, the Captain of the French frigate, the Consul 
of France, and several other gentlemen of distinction, 
were invited, but business of importance prevented the 
Governor and Council from attending. At this happy 
meeting of the Marquis with his brother officers, an hon- 
est and affectionate joy was displayed, known only per- 
haps to those who,in common danger and sufferings, have 
experienced the most exalted feelings of which human 
nature is capable. Mirth and felicity pervaded the 
whole company. After dinner, a number of patriotic 
toasts were drank. 

* Boston Magazine, 1784. 

12 



90 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



In the afternoon, the Marquis was escorted to Boston; 
by the officers, the consul, the captain of the frigate, 
and a numerous concourse of the most respectable citi- 
zens. At Roxbury, he was received and saluted by the 
artillery company, commanded by Major Spooner. His 
entrance into town was announced by the ringing of bells, 
and a salute from the Boston artillery, commanded by 
Major Davis, who conducted him through the town into 
State street, in the following order, viz. 

Pioneers, 

The Artillery company, bearing the standards of 

America and France, 

Drums and Fifes, 
The band of music, 
Chevalier Marquis Major Gen. 

De Caraman, Fayette, Knox, 

The officers of the late American army in grand 
divisions, 
A large number of respectable inhabitants in carriages, 
Grand divisions of officers, &c. 
On passing the Liberty Stump,* three cheers were 
given. At the Bunch of Grapes, the Marquis alighted, 
and, ascended the balcony, returned his thanks very po- 
litely to the gentlemen of every order for the attention 
they had shewn him. The officers of the army took their 
leave, and the whole concluded with three hearty 
cheers from one of the most numerous and animated 
assemblies we have ever seen. 

The handsome appearance of the military, the ringing 
of the bells, the crowded windows as he passed through 
the town, and the joy visible in every countenance, 
demonstrated the gratitude and pleasure, which the arri- 
val of this nobleman has excited through the people of 
every class. 

In the darkest moment of misfortune he espoused the 
cause of America ; his military talents, the ardor of his 
virtuous mind, and the nearest treasure of his heart have 

* Near Boylsfon Market. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



«n 



been devoted to om- cause ; and while gratitude is ac- 
counted a virtue, the name of Lafayette will be dear to 
every American, 

On Saturday the officers of the army wkiteA on tin- 
Marquis at his lodgings, and presented an address, and 
wore Favored with an answer emphatically expressive oi 
the genuine nobility oi" Lafayette. 

Oct. 21. Tuesday test, being the 10th of October, a 
day ever memorable for the brilliant event whirl) gave 
to the allied arms a favorite British General, at the head 
of 9000 chosen troops, and which secured peace, liberty 
and safety to America, was fixed on as a proper time to 
pay those honours to the Marquis de la Fayette* which 
his services, hoth in the held and cabinet, in limes of 
danger, have so justly entitled him to from this country. 

On the 18th ins*, the two branches of the legislature 

passed an order, tint the President of the Senate, and 

Speaker of the House of Representatives, invite the 
Marquis de la Faytette to meet the supreme executive 

and the two houses of the legislature, in the senate room, 
on Tuesday the IDlhof Oetoher, (a day always to he 
marked in the annals of America.) 

The next day his excellency the Governor*, his honour 
the Lieutenant Governor, and the honorable council, in- 
tended in the senate chamber, where the two house <•! 
the legislature were; assembled. At the hour- prefixed, 
the Marquis, with his suite, was introduced by the 
secretary of the commonwealth, when Ins excellency the 
Governor, in behalf of the executive and legislative 
branches of government, congratulated him in terms of 

the highest respect and esteem. To which the JVlarejuis 
was pleaded to make a polite and elegant reply. After 

the congratulations were over, the Marquis, with Ins 
excellency the Governor^ withdrew. 

Hut the Marquis is too much beloved at Boston, not 
to meet with every testimonial of private as well as pub- 
lic affection and esteem. 'The merchants, and other gen- 
tlemen of the town, accordingly jrave a dinner at Fan- 

eml-Hall ; at which were invited and present, the M;n- 



92 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

quis and all the French gentlemen in town, the Govern* 
or, Lieutenant Governor and Council, the President of 
the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and President of 
the Bank, the Clergy of every denomination, the Select- 
men, 75 Continental officers, and a number of strangers, 
At 1 o'clock, the train of artillery, commanded by Major 
Davis, joined by a company in similar uniform from Rox- 
bury, commanded by Major Spooner, paraded in State 
street, and discharged 13 cannon, which were answered 
by a like number at the castle, and by his most Christian 
Majesty's frigate La Nymphe. In the mean while, the 
gentlemen, invited to partake of the entertainment, col- 
lected at the Senate chamber, and at half past 2 o'clock, 
upwards of three hundred persons went in procession 
from the Senate chamber to Faneuil-Hall, under escort 
of Major Davis' artillery, and under the discharge of the 
cannon commanded by Major Spooner, which was plant- 
ed at the bottom of State Street, and facing the proces- 
sion. The elegance with which the tables were cover- 
ed, and the ornaments which beautifully decora- 
ted the Hall, were peculiarly striking to every person 
as he entered, and reflected the highest taste on the 
managers. At the upper end of the hall were erected 
thirteen arches, which gradually lessened from the cen- 
tre to the ends, and were adorned and interspersed with 
a great variety of flowers and verdure ; and on the arch 
directly over the Marquis' head, was hung, a fleur-de-lis. 

The company, while at dinner, were entertained with 
a band of music. After dinner, the following 13 toasts 
were drank, viz : 

1. The United States. 

2. Our great Ally, his most Christian Majesty. 

3. General Washington. 

4. The commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

5. Commerce, Agriculture, Arts and Sciences. 

6. The memory of those patriots and heroes who tell 
in the late contest. 

7. May the United States of America never lose sight of 
justice. 

8. The Army and Navy of Fiance. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 93 

9. Perpetual harmony and happiness to the United 
States and their Allies. 

10. The combined forces who nobly fought in the 
cause of America. 

11. May the temple of Janus be shut forever. 

12. The rights of mankind, and universal benevo- 
lcncc. 

13.' This memorable day— SARATOGA and YORK 
TOWN. 

At every toast, thirteen cannon were discharged in 
Market Square ; most of the toasts were accompanied 
with a clapping of hands three times. When General 
Washington was given, a curtain behind the Marquis 
was instantly rent asunder, which discovered to the 
company his Excellency's picture, crowned with a wreath 
of flowers and laurels, and supported with the ensigns of 
France and America. The Marquis rose from his seat, 
and with a countenance mingled with pleasure and sur- 
prise, and a tear of friendship starting in his eye, at re- 
cognizing the features of his general (as he always styles 
him) repeated the clap that had been given, which in- 
stantly communicated to the whole company, and in- 
voluntarily produced a roar of applause. 

As a mark of the benevolent motives that actuated the 
promoters of this day of festivity, it ought to be men- 
tioned, that all the wine and fragments of provision, of 
every kind, which were left at the hall, were carefully 
collected and sent to the alms house and jail, that the 
hearts, even of the miserable in confinement and distress, 
might expand upon this joyous occasion. 

Such was the reception of General Lafayette by the 
citizens of Boston in 1784. By comparing it with that 
of 1824, it will be observed that the lapse of forty years 
has not diminished our attachment ; and that the de- 
scendants of the heroes of the revolution esteem it as one 
of their highest privileges, that they can" stand up and 
do him honor.'" — And who, that has one spark of grati- 
tude alive in his bosom, could prevent its kindling into a 
flame, and bursting forth with all tho effulgence of grate- 



9 k Toi it OF LAPAYETTfi, 

lul admiration, on beholding the man who was a copatrw 
ol with Washington) the political savior of our country j 
on beholding the hero, who was bo instrumental id eman- 
cipating an oppressed nation from the fetters of servi- 
tude and slavery. All, all must respond the sentiment! 
of the juvenile hearts of Hartford — 

" Nous veins ;uimoiis I iafayette."* 



ENTREE INTO BOSTON. 

The annunciation of the arrival of General Lafayette 
at the seat of His Excellency Governor Eustis, in Roxbu- 

iy, put every liiiuo- in activity in Boston; and gave the 
city council lime lor the prompt execution of their ar- 

rangements for his hearty and cordial welcome. 

A pumerous cavalcade, under the direction ol' Lieut. 
Coii Amory, was formed in Common Street,a1 nine of the 
clocjf in the forenoon, and proceeded to the residence of 
Governor Eustis, to escort ih<> General <o the city. 

The city authorities, in carriages, proceded by the as- 
sistant city marshall,t pJtoceedttl from the City Ball, ;it 

nine of the clock. At ten nunufes before eleven, they 

in. ' the General at the border of Roxbury, where the 
Mayor ol' the city, the Hon. Mr. Quincy, welcomed him 

by the following address : — 

l * jSt'r, — The Citizens of Boston welcome you, on your re- 
turn to tin; United States} mindful ofyour early zeal in the 
cause of American independence, grateful foryour distin- 
guished share in the penis and glories of ds achievement, 
Winn urged l>\ a generous sympathy, yoii Qrst landed 

on these shores, you found a people engaged in an ardu- 
ous and eventful struggle for liberty, with apparently in- 
adequate means, and amidst dubious omens. Alter the 
lapse of nearly half a century, you find the same people 
prosperous beyond all hope, and all precedent ; their hh- 

* Allusion is hen; made to /he put-lit ul nddreii of the children ol Hartford, 
Connecticut, to x\w General- They were decorated with ribbons, bearing the 
inscription nbovc quoted, " noui voux aimeni Lqfliystte," 
| Capt. John RouUtonc. 



Tour OF LAFAYETTB. »•> 

crty secure ; sitting io its strength ; without fear and 

without reproach. 

In your youth) you joined the, standard of three mill- 
ion:, of people, rai d man unequal and uncertain conflict. 
In your advanced age, you return, and are met by ten 
millions of people, their dei ceudante, whose heart! throng 
hither to greet your approach; and to rejoice in if. 

This is not the movement of a turbulent populace, 
excited by the fresh laurels of souk; recent conqueror 
It is a grave, moral, intellectual impulse. 

A whole people, in tin; enjoyment of freedom, as per- 
fecl ;is the condition of our nature permits, recur with 
gratitude, increasing with (lie dmly increasing sense of 
their blessings, to the memory of those, who, hy their la- 
bors, and in their blood, laid the foundation 01 our liber- 
ties. 

Vonr name, Sir,— the name of Lafaxettej is associa- 
ted wiih the most perilous, and raosl glorious periods oi 
our Revolution : wiih the imperishable names <>l Wash- 
ington, and of that numerous nost of heroes which adorn 
the proudest archives of American history, and are en- 
graven in indelible traces on the hearts of the whole 
American people. 

Accept then, Sir, in the sincere spirit in winch it is of- 

lered, llns simple tribute to yoUC values. 

Again, Sir, the citizens of Boston bid you welcome to 
the cradle of American independence, and to scenes 
consecrated with the blood shed hy the earliest martyrs 
a. ii cause.' 1 

Answer of General Lafayette. 
« To the Mayor and People of Boston — 

The emotions of love and gratitude which ^ hare 
been accustomed to feel on my entering this city, have 
ever mingled with a sense of religious reverence lor the 
cradle of American, and, let us hope, ii will he hcreaftei 
said, of universal liberty. 

Whal must be, Sir, my feelings at the ment, 

when, after so long an absence, I find myself again sur- 
rounded hy (he good citizens of Boston; where I am ■■' 



% TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

affectionately) so honorably welcomed, not only by my 
old friends, but by several* uccessive generations. Where 
I can witness the prosperity, the immense improvements, 
that have been (he just reward of a noble struggle, virtu- 
ous morals, and truly republican institutions. 

1 beg of you Mr. Mayor, gentlemen of the City Coun- 
cil, and all of you, beloved citizens of Boston, to accept 
the respectful and warm thanks of a heart, winch lias 
for nearly half a century, been particularly devoted to 
your illustrious city." 

The procession was then formed. The following is 
an outline of the order : 

Three Marshals. 
A corps of Light Dragoons, commanded by Capt. Isaac 

Davis. 
A regiment of Light Infantry, composed of the Boston 
Fusiliers, Boston Light Infantry, Winslow Blues, 
Washington Infantry, New England Guards, 
Hangers and City Guards, commanded by 
Captain John S, Tyler, acting as 
Colonel ; Capt. John R. Brad- 
ford, as Lieut. Coloucl ; 
and Captain Joseph 
N. Howe, Jun. 
as Major. 
A full band of music, consisting of thirty two performers. 

Chief Marshal Harris." 

Marshal Brooks. Marshal Sargent. 

Members of the City Council in carriages. 

Committee of Arrangements in carriages, viz : — 

Alderman Odiorne, Benjamin, and Eddy, 

Messrs. Russell, Curtis, E. Williams, T. 

Page, Washburn, Davis, and Coolidge. 

The President of the Common Council, and Alderman 

Baxter, in a barouche. 

Marshal Roul stone. 

GEN. LAFAYETTE, 

Marshal. In . a b^uche, drawn by four ( M ^ 
bcautuul white horses, ac- 
companied by thcMayor. 



>,i 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTEl: 9? 

Mr. G. W. Lafayette, M. } 

Marshal. Lc Vasseur, and Colonel > Marshal. 

Golden, of New York. ) 
Society of Cincinnati, 
In ten carriages, one containing the Hon. John Brooks, 
President of the Society, 
and other officers. 
Strangers of distinction in carriages. 
Two Marshals. 
Field and staff officers of the first division of Militia. 
Two Marshals. 
The mounted Cavalcade, composed of the carters, 
Woodwharfingors, and citizens. 
Two Marshals. 
In this order the procession entered the city, and pro- 
ceeded through Washington, Milk, Broad, State, Court, 
and Common streets, to Boylston street. 

An arch was thrown across Washington street, above 
South Boston bridge, near the spot where, when Lafay- 
ette left the town in 1787, were the remains of a breast- 
work erected during the Revolutionary war. At each 
side of the arch was planted a tree of oak, and another 
Of pine, about twenty i'eot in height, and the pillars were 
tastefully wreathed with evergreens and flowers. The 
arch itself was decorated with American flags and ever- 
greens, and from its centre, a scroll was suspended, bear- 
ing the following inscription : — - 

WELCOME LAFAYETE 
The Fathers in Glory shall sleep, 
That g.itherM with thee to the fight, 
But the souh will eternally keep 
The tablet of gratitude bright. 
We bow not the neck, 
And we bend not tlie knee, 
Hut our hearts, Lafayettk, 
We surrender to thee. 

Another arch Was erected across Washington street, 
by the Boylston Market, on the spot once shaded by the 
" Liberty Tree," which was elegantly decorated with 
oaken garlands, so arranged as to form a beautiful bor- 
der on each side of the arcb. The space not covered 

aa 



98 tour of Lafayette. 

"with these leaves of oak, was about two feet broad, and 
contained the motto, "Washington and Lafayette" in 
large capitals, extending from one end of the arch 
to the other. Underneath was the motto, " a Republic 
not ungrateful/' 

At several places lines Were extended across the 
street, decorated with flags and forming handsome fes- 
toons. 

The General and the City authorities passed through 
the Common, on which were placed, extending the whole 
length of it, in two lines, the pupils of the Public Schools, 
the misses principally dressed in white, and the lads in 
blue coats and white underclothes, each bearing a por- 
trait of Fayette on their breasts, stamped on ribbons. — 
They exceeded twenty five hundred in number. On 
passing the line, a beautiful little girl about six years old, 
stepped forth, and begged leave to address the General. 
She was handed to the Mayor, and by him to the Gen- 
eral, who saluted her. She then delivered a short ad- 
dress, took a wreath of flowers from her head, and put 
it on his own. The General made her a very affection- 
ate reply, and placed the wreath in his carriage. 

The following are the liries presented, entwined in a 
Wreath of flowers. 

An infant hand presents these blushing 1 flowers, ' 

Glowing and pure as childhood's artless hours, 

When roses bloom and buds of promise smile, 

Repaying with their charms the culturer's toil. 

Oh ! take them, father, they were cull'd for you ; 

(Still bright with warm affection's sacred dew ;) 

Oh ! let them live in thy benignant smile, 

And o'er thy brow of glory bloom awhile, 

'Twin'd with a laurel fame on thee bestow'd, 

When thy young heart with patriot ardor glow'd. 

Self -exiled from the charms of wealth and love, 

And home and friends, thou didst our champion prove. 

And, by the side of glorious WASHINGTON, 

Didst make our grateful country all thine own. 

Go, fragile offering, speak the ardent joy 

Our bosoms feel, which time can ne'er destroy ! 

All the streets, through which the procession passed, 
were tastefully dressed with the national flags of the 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 99 

United States and France. On one of the flags in Broad 
street, was the following : — 

^ WELCOME ILLUSTRIOUS CHIEF, 

Receive the pledges of thy children, to sustain with 
fidelity the principles that first associated LAFAY- 
ETTE with the destinies of America. 

NATURAL RIGHTS. 

YORKTOWN and MONMOUTH. 

On his arrival at the head of the mall, the military 
formed a line in Park street, and stood with presented 
arms, while the General passed in review before them 
to the front gate of the State house, where he alighted, 
and was conducted to the Senate chamber. Here he 
was received by his Excellency the Governor and the 
Executive council, as the guest of the commmonwealth. 
The Governor then communicated to him the felicitations 
and welcome of the state, in the following address : — 

Sir, our Friend, — In the name of the government, 
and in behalf of the citizens of Massachusetts, I have 
the honour to greet you with a cordial, an affectionate 
welcome. 

We thank God that he has been pleased to preserve 
you through the scenes of peril and of suffering, which 
have distinguished your patriotic and eventful life, and 
that we are indulged with this occasion of renewing to 
you, our grateful acknowledgments for the important 
services which you have rendered to our common coun- 
try. 

In the last surviving Major General of the American 
Revolutionary army,we recognize a benefactor and friend 
from a distant and gallant nation ; who, inspired by a 
love of liberty, subjected himself in his youth to the toils 
and hazards of a military life, in support of our rights. 
Under our illustrious Washington, you were instrumental 
in establishing the liberties of our country, while your 
gallantry in the field secured to yourself an imperishable 
renown. 



100 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

With the enjoyment of the blessings of independence, 
we shall never cease to associate the name of Lafayette, 
and our prayer to heaven will be for his health and pros- 
perity. 

General Lafayette's Reply. 

" Sir, — When, in the name of the people and govern* 
ment of this state, your excellency is pleased so kindly 
to welcome an American veteran, I am proud to share 
the honors and enjoyments of such a reception, with my 
revolutionary companions and brother soldiers. — Sir, I 
am delighted with what I sec ; I am oppressed with 
what 1 feel ; but I depend upon you as an old friend, to 
do justice to my sentiments." 

Having been introduced to the members of the city 
government, he was conducted, by the Mayor and com- 
mittee of arrangements, to the residence prepared for 
him at the corner of Beacon and Park streets. 

It would be impossible to convey any correct idea of 
the splendor and excitement connected with these trans- 
actions. The General rode uncovered, bowing to the en- 
raptured throngs, who, at short intervals, greeted him 
with loud and joyous acclamations. The ladies, thous- 
ands of whom appeared to witness the scene, waved 
their white handkerchiefs, as he passed, in token of 
pleasure and approbation. The windows of the new 
stone buildings at the head of State street, the windows 
and terraces of Collonade row, and of the houses north 
of St. Paul's Church, exhibited assemblages of beauty, 
taste, and fashion, fully equal to any specimens that oth- 
er occasions have produced. 

The City council, with their honored guest, the Mayor, 
and a deputation from the City council of New York, 
Hon. Messrs. Webster and Lloyd, Governor Eustis, 
Hon. J. Brooks, and a number of others, dined together 
at the Exchange ColFee House. Among other toasts were 
the following :• — 

By General Lafayette. — The City of Boston, the 
cradle of liberty. — May Faneuil Hall ever stand a monu- 
ment to teach the world, that resistance to oppression is 



TOUR Off f-AI'AYKT'ii:. 101 

,i <//////, ;in<l will, under true republican institutions, be- 
pome s bletting, 

By Gov, Bboosbb. The present joyous occasion, and 
its interesting associations with the American Revolution, 

In the evening, the General visited Mrs. Scott, relict 
o£ the deceased Governor Hancock, whose hospitality 
and esteem, the General had often Experienced in " the 

limes which died men's souls." Tbfl interview mu .< 

have been peculiarly interesting! 

On Wednesday, the ( Mineral attended commencement 
at Harvard University. He left Boston, in company 
Willi the supreme executive, (escorted by ;i company «'! 
dragoons,) tne committee of arrangements, the deputation 

from New York, and other distingui lied citizens, in 

carriages. The streets and road to Cambridge, were, 
appropriately dressed dn the occasion. On bis arrival 
be was conducted to the public room, where were as- 
sembled the literati of this and other slates, the hoard of 
overseers of the University, the Kx-(jovei nors of New 

Hampshire and Massachusetts, and many of the distin- 
guished citizens, whose names have been frequently an- 
nounced, and who renewed then- congratulations. The 
usual procession to the meeting house took place, the 
(General e/alking with the Governor. It is hardly neces- 
sary to repeat, that on IiIh landing at the colleges, bis ai 
rival near the mooting house, and his entrance therein, be 
Was greeted with ardent and enthusiastic acclamations. 
The galleries, and most of the teats of the house, were 

literally tilled with beauty :uid fashion, and, on his en 
trance, the ladies rose, and, while other-, cheered, waved 

their handkerchiefs, in token of their sensibility. Th« a 
proceedings necessarily delayed the exercises, which 

were not finished I ill nearly live o'clock. 

A, Lafayette passed the hone of the late John Han- 
cock, the Mayor said to him, " there ^its the widow ol 
your deceased friend.*" He immediately caught her 

eye, and, in the mo st enthusiastic manner, pressed hi. 
hand upon his heart. She- hurst into l*arw, and excUun- 
ud, \ I have now lived long cruiu'jh. 1 



lOli TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

As an instance of the kind feelings which prevailed on 
Tuesday last, it may not be unworthy of remark, thai 
the deputy sheriils shut their offices, and participated in 
the hilarity of the occasion. One of them placed upon 
his door the following distich : — 

u Arrests in civil suits, postponed — to-day ; 
Sacred to freedom, and to freedom's friend." 

The following is the address of President Kirkland, on 
meeting the General in Cambridge : — 

" We bid you welcome, General Lafayette, to the 
most ancieiit of the seminaries of our land. The over- 
seers and fellows of the University, the professors and 
other officers, the candidates for the academic honors of 
this day, and the students, tender you their respectful, 
their affectionate salutations. We ^vect you with pecu- 
liar pleasure, at this literary festival, gratified that you 
regard the occasion with interest, and espouse the at- 
tachment, which, as members of a republic, we cannot 
fail to cherish to the cause of learning and education. 

As a man sustaining his part through various scenes, 
prosperous and adverse, of an eventful life, your charac- 
ter and course, marked by moral dignity, have challeng- 
ed particular respect and sympathy. As the patron, 
the champion and benefactor of America, you have a 
relation to us, by which we call you our own, and join 
gratitude and affection to exalt esteem. The early 
and costly pledges you gave of devotion to the principles 
and spirit of our institutions, your adoption of our peril- 
ous and uncertain contest for national existence, your 
friendship in the hour of our greatest need, have associ- 
ated your name in the minds and hearts of Americans, 
with the dearest and most affecting recollections. The 
fathers teach their children, the instructors their pu- 
pils, to hold you in love and honor : and the history of 
these states takes charge of your claims to the grateful 
remembrance of all future generations. 

It is a pleasing reflection attending the progress of 
these communities, that it justifies our friends and sup- 
porters ; and that the predilections and hopes in our 
favor, which you indulged in the ardor of youth, have 
been followed by good auspices till your advanced age. — 



tour op Lafayette. 103 

We are, indeed, happy in presenting you ihe fruit of your 
toils and dangers, in the kindly operation of the causes, 
which you did *o much to call into action, and we rejoice 
in erery demonstration we arc able to give, that your 
care for us has not been vain. Knowing how you feel 
yourself to have a property in our welfare, and sensible 
of the enjoyment accruing to your generous spirit from 
our prosperity, we find in these considerations new mo- 
tives to maintain liberty with ardor ; ami in the exercise 
of our functions feel bound to endeavour to send out from 
our care, enlightened and virtuous men, employing then- 
influence to secure to their country the advantages, and 
prevent and remedy the evils attending the wide diffu- 
sion among a people of political power. 

Accept our wishes and prayers lor your health and 
happiness. May the Invisible Hand, which has been 
your safeguard thus far, continue ifs protecting care. — 
May the Supreme Disposer, the Witness and Judge of 
character and conduct, having appointed you a long and 
tranquil evening of days, receive you to the final and 
glorious reward of the faithful in a perfect state. 

To this address the General made, in substance, the 
following reply, which he concluded with a Latin quota 
tion, not distinctly understood. 

It is with real pleasure, sir, that I find myself again at 
this University, which 1 visited lor the first time more 
than forty years ago. The great improvements which 
have been made here during the interval, are striking 
evidences of the tendency of liberal political institutions, 
to promote the progress of civilization and learning. J 
beg you to accept my warmest thanks for your kind ex- 
pression of personal civility to myself, and my best wish- 
es for the continued prosperity of the valuable establish- 
ment over which you preside. 

A procession was then formed and moved in regular 
order to the meeting house. The general was accom- 
panied by the arm of the Governor and on his en- 
trance into the meeting house, the applause was loud 
and enthusiastic, and during the whole of the exercises, 
whenever any allusion was made to him or his history* 



104 TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

the deepest feeling was evinced. At a late hour the ex- 
ercises finished, when he repaired to Commons hall, and 
partook of the dinner provided for the occasion. 

In the evening, the General returned to his residence 
in Boston, amid the plaudits of the citizens who sur- 
rounded him on his return. 

Address of Judge Fay to Gen. Lafayette, in behalf of 
the citizens of Cambridge, on the 25th ult. 

General Lafayette. — The citizens of Cambridge pre- 
sent themselves before you, to greet your arrival in their 
country with an affectionate welcome, and to offer the 
simple homage of grateful hearts to the early and con- 
stant friend of American liberty — the steady and uni- 
form asserter of the rights of man. They desire to make 
known to you the profound sentiments of gratitude and 
admiration, with which their bosoms are inspired by the 
recollection of the generous and distinguished services 
rendered by you to the United States in their struggle for 
national existence. In that struggle, you made a volunta- 
ry offering of your life and fortune on the altar of civil 
liberty ! In so doing, you sought no rewards but in the 
conscious magnanimity of the act and in the lasting grati- 
tude of a whole people. Those rewards you have, Sir, 
and long, long may you enjoy them. 

Permit us to remind you, Sir, that on this spot was as- 
sembled the first army of our revolution ; that here, 
Washington first assumed the command of that army, 
and entered upon the momentous contest, which termina- 
ted in our national independence — that independence, 
which your own disinterested and noble efforts contribu- 
ted so essentially to achieve. 

To you, General, the friend and companion in arms of 
our beloved Washington — the benefactor of our country ; 
the soldier of liberty — to you the citizens of Cambridge 
again tender their heartfelt welcomes, and pray you to 
accept their fervent wishes, that all of your future days 
may be full of happiness and honors. 

To which the General made an affectionate reply. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE, 105 

The following is the address to General Lafayette, 
by the Massachusetts Society of Cincinnati. 

Sir, — The Society of Cincinnati, of the state of Massa- 
chusetts, seize the earliest moment after your arrival in 
this city, of extending to you the hand of friendship and 
affection. 

We offer you our most cordial congratulations on your 
safe arrival again after the lapse of forty years on the 
shores of our favored country, once the theatre of our 
united toils, privations and combats with a powerful foe, 
but now the peaceful domain of a great, a free and 
independent people. 

We hail you, Sir, in unison with the millions of our 
fellow citizens, most respectfully hail you as a statesman, 
as a philanthropist, and as the early, inflexible, and de- 
voted friend, not only of our beloved country, but of the 
sacred principles of civil liberty and human rights. 

But we greet you under more tender and hallowed 
associations, in the endearing relation of a brother sol- 
dier, who, in the ardor of youth, commenced in the 
field with us your career of glory in the holy cause of 
liberty and American independence. 

But here recollections crowd upon our minds too pow r - 
erful for utterance. Words would but mock the deep 
emotions of our hearts, should we attempt to express 
them, in contemplating the character, attributes, and 
services of the parental chief under whose auspices we 
trod together the field of honor. 

To the profound veneration and love for his memory 
that penetrates your bosom, we refer you as to a trans- 
cript of our own. 

It would be vain to imagine the joy that would swell 
the great mind of Washington, were he still living, to 
recognize, with our nation, the generous disinterested- 
ness, the glowing ardour, the personal sacrifices, and the 
gallant achievements of his much loved Fayette. 

But it is equally vain to endeavor, on this occasion, to 
exclude such interesting reflections from the mind, or 
to deny it the melancholy pleasure of lingering on the 



106 tour of lafayette. 

solemn reality, that not a single individual, of the general 
staff of the army of the American revolution, now sur- 
vives to participate in the joy that your presence in the 
United States has awakened. 

To us, it is peculiarly grateful, that you are permitted, 
after the lapse of so long a period, to witness the con- 
summation of the principles of our revolution. 

You will perceive, Sir, that the hopes and predictions 
of the wise and good men who were your particular asso- 
ciates in the arduous struggle, have been fulfilled and 
surpassed. 

You will behold a great people, united in their princi- 
ples of jurisprudence, connected together by the strong 
ties of mutual interests, and happy under the fostering 
influence of a free and energetic government. 

You will therefore, allow us to reiterate our felicita- 
tions on your safe arrival among us, and to welcome you 
once more to the good land which youthful valor con- 
tributed to elevate and distinguish. 

May your future life be as tranquil and happy, as your 
past has been useful, uniform, and glorious !" 

To this address, the General made the following reply : 

" Amidst the inexpressible enjoyments which press 
upon my heart, I could not but feel particularly eager 
and happy to meet my beloved brothers in arms. Many, 
many, I call in vain, and, at the head of them, our match- 
less paternal chief, whose love to an adopted son, I am 
proud to say, you have long witnessed. But, while we 
mourn together, for those we have lost, while I find a 
consolation in the sight of their relations and friends, it is 
to me a delightful gratification, to recognize my surviv- 
ing companions of our revolutionary army, that army so 
brave, so virtuous, so united by mutual confidence and 
affection. That we have been the faithful soldiers of 
independence, freedom, and equality, those three essen- 
tial requisites of national and personal dignity and hap- 
piness ; that we have lived to see those sacred princi- 
ples secured to this vast republic, and cherished else- 
where by all generous minds, shall be the pride of our 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 107 

Me, the boast of our children, the comfort of our last 
inornents. Receive, my dear brother soldiers, the 
grateful thanks, and constant love, of your old compan- 
ion and friend." 

On Thursday, the General was waited on by deputa- 
tions from Newport, Brown University, (inviting him to 
attend commencement), Lynn, &c. by the government of 
the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association, (to 
invite him to a public collation) ; and by others. He 
afterwards repaired to the doric hall of the State house, 
where nearly two thousand citizens, of all professions, 
ages, and conditions, were presented to him, with each 
of whom he affectionately shook hands. Several ladies 
of distinction were among the number. Several of the 
humble, but interesting heroes of the Revolution, took 
this occasion to welcome their good old General. Nu- 
merous incidents in this scene brought tears from many 
manly eyes.— One decrepid veteran, on crutches, was 
recognized by the General as a companion in arms at the 
memorable onset at Yorktown. Others were recalled to 
I'ecollection, by events at Monmouth, at Brandy wine, 
West Point, Saratoga, and other places. Others, as be- 
longing to the light army, which " the Marquis" com- 
manded in 1780, 81, &c. The hands of all these he 
seized with the most affectionate cordiality, frequently 
repeating, " O ! my brave light infantry /" " My gallant 
soldiers /" " Excellent troops," &c. One inquired, "Is 
my old colonel, Gimat, alive V " Alas, wo," replied the 
General. Another,* introduced himself, as one of the 
only two survivors of the 2d regiment of light dragoons, 
of the army ; when the General remarked, that he was 
happy in seeing so respectable a relict of that fine corps 
alive. Numerous other incidents of the kind occurred. 

The pen of a Sterne alone could do justice to their 
merit. Several of the veterans, who kissed the hands of 
their General, were so absorbed by their feelings, that 
their tongues refused their offices ; and as they passed 

♦ Capt. H. Purkett. 



108 TOUR Or LAFAYF/PTE. 

silently on, the bio- round tear stood trembling in eyes 
which never winked amidst the rage and carnage oi' the 
battle ground. 

We cannot omit one other incident, evincive of the 
genuine republicanism of our distinguished guest. — At a 
humble distance, and alone, an old and venerable black 
man, (named John Harrison,} approached the General, 
bowed, and expressed his wish to embrace the hand of 
the friend of human kind ; and whom he had the honor, 
he said, to wait upon, when he resided at the house of 
Mr. Brock, in Boston. The General instantly acccpied 
his hand ; and to the pious aspiration of the descendant 
of Africa, "that God would long continue him happy in 
this world, and bless him in a world to come,' 11 returned 
thanks for his kind wishes. This incident occasioned 
very rapturous plaudits from all the numerous spectators ot 
it. The venerable John Kn eel and, Esq. of Andover, in 
presenting his hand, offered up ascriptions of praise to 
Heaven, for the preservation of a life so dear to the 
friends of liberty in both hemispheres. 

At noon, General .^afayette left again for Cam- 
bridge, to attend the exercises of (he Phi Beta Kappa 
Society ; where he again received renewed tokens of 
respect and attention, lie appeared much pleased ; 
and spoke in high terms of the exercises, which were an 
address to " Liberty" by the Key. Henry Ware, and an 
oration " on the motives to intellectual exertion in this 
country," by the Rev. Professor Jvvkrett. 

On Friday, the General visited Charlestown, accom- 
panied by Gov. Knslis, the late Gov. Brooks, the revo- 
lutionary worthies of the New York deputation, and the 
Mayor and committee of arrangements. They passed, 
in carraiges, through Hanover, and Lynn streets, over 
Charles River bridge to Charlestown. The north part 
of the city was appropriately dressed with colors, and 
adorned by civic arches. 

A Cavalcade of citizens took up the escort of the pro- 
cession at the mill bridge, and conducted it, to the line 
between JSuifolk and Middlesex. Here the General was 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 109 

met by Col. Jaques, chief marshal, and his aids, who con- 
ducted him to the Committee of arrangements of the 
citizens of Charlestown, on the square, where a proces- 
sion was formed in the following order : 

TWO MARSHALS. 

A regiment of light infantry composed of a battalion 

from Charlestown and another battalion composed 

of companies from Cambridge, W. Cambridge, 

and Waltham, and a battalion of artillery, 

the whole commanded by Col. Gay, 

of the first regiment. 

Musick. 

A marshal. 

Committee of arrangement in carriages. 

Chief marshal. 

C General LAFAYETTE, > 

Marshal. and > Marshal 

^ the General's family. j 

Governor Eustis and suite. 

Maj. Gen. Dearborn. 

Governor Brooks, and the executive council of the state. 

Chief Justice Parker, and other state officers. 
The Mayor and committee of arrangements of the city 

of Boston. 
Deputations from New York, Newport and other 

cities. 
Officers of the Army and Navy. 
Brigadier General Dearborn, Adjutant General Sum- 
ner, and officers of the militia. 
Strangers of eminence. 
Town officers. 
The north Boston cavalcade. 
Citizens. 

This procession moved through Salem and High 
streets, to the monument of Warren, on Breed*s (com- 
monly called Bunker's) hill, where the whole alighted, 
and the military formed in linn. Assembled around the 



1.10 TOUIl OF LAFAYETTE. 

monument, Dr. A. R. Thompson, of the committee oi 
arrangements, delivered tho following address : — 

Sir, — In behalf of the inhabitants oi' Charlestown, 
the committee of arrangements present their respectful 
salutations to Gen. Lafayette, and bid him a cordial wel- 
come to this town. This joyful occasion revives high 
national feelings and recollections, and touches the springs 
of gratitude, by reminding us of that interesting period 
of our history, which gave to our country a gallant Hero, 
and to the rights of mankind, a steadfast champion. — 
While we participate in the thrill of delight which every 
where hails the visit of our illustrious friend, we cannot 
suppress the peculiar emotion of our hearts on receiving 
you, Sir, on the memorable heights of Bunker. On this 
holy ground, immortalized by the dead, and sacred to the 
manes of revolutionary heroes : — over these heights, lib- 
erty once moved in blood and tears ; her chariot on 
wheels of fire. Now she comes in her car of peace and 
glory ; drawn by the affections of a happy people, to 
crown on these same heights, with civic honors, a favor- 
ite Son, whose early strength was given to her sacred 
struggles, and whose riper years are now permitted to 
behold the splendor of her triumphs. In the fulness of our 
hearts we give thanks to Almighty God, who has guided 
and guarded your high career of peril and renown. 

Permit us, beloved General, again to welcome you to 
our borders ; to express our ardent hopes, that your val- 
uable life may be prolonged to the utmost limits of earth- 
ly happiness ; that the land which has been enriched 
with the dew of your youth, may be honored as the asy- 
lum of your old age ; that the country which now blends 
your fame with the mild lustre of Washington, may hence- 
forth hail you as a citizen of Washington's country ; and 
that, during the residue of your years, you may live 
amidst the attentions, as you will forever live in the 
hearts of a grateful and admiring people. 

To this address, Lafayette immediately returned the 
following reply. 

"With profound reverence, Sir, I tread this holy 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 1 1 J 

ground, where the blood oi" American patriots ; the 
blood of Warren and his companions, early and 
gloriously spilled — aroused the energy of three mil- 
lions, and secun 1 the happiness oi' ten millions, and 
of many other millions of men in tinaei to come. That 
blood has called both American continents to republican 
independence, ami has awakened the nations of Europe 
to a sense, and, in future, I trust, to the practice, oi their 
rights. Such have been the effects of a resistance to op- 
pression, which was, by many pretended wise men of 
the times, called rashness ; while it was duty, virtue; 
and has been a signal for the emancipation of mankind. 

I beg you, Sir, and the Magistrates and the citizens of 
Charlcstown, to except the homage of gratitude for your 
kind welcome, and of those sentiments of affection and 
respect, which, for so many years 1 have cherished to- 
ward their town." 

This reply was responded by reiterated huzzas, and 
salutes from the artillery. 

The General then passed the two battalions in review, 
with Gov. Eustis and Major Generals Brooks and Dear- 
born, and received their marching salutes. All the troops 
were decorated with the Lafayette badges. Alter the 
review, Gov. Brooks, President of the Bunker Hill mon- 
ument association, introduced a deputation of the board 
of Directors to the General. On beino- informed that it 
was intended to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary* oi* 
Bunker hill battle in a manner worthy of the great event, 
the General was pleased to say, that if he should be in 
the United Slates, it would be his earnest desire to be 
present, and to manifest the sentiments which he should 
feel on that interesting occasion. The design of the in- 
stitution having been previously explained to him, the 
General desired to be numbered among the subscribers ; 
and at the request of the corporation his name stands at 
the head of the subscription list. The General, and 
the part of the procession in carriages, then proceeded to 
Bunker's hill, where after salutations and introductions, 

"In Jane iu.23. 



112 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

the whole partook of a sumptuous repast, provided un- 
der a marquee pitched on one of the highest points of the 
hill. 

The streets of Charlcstown were very elegantly drcss J 
ed with banners, and crossed with civic arches — one 
bore wreaths of laurel dressed with flowers, — and an- 
other, an inscription : — " Welcome — To our Hearts, and 
our Homes." On the Main street was a beautiful dis- 
play of the misses and youths of the several schools. — 
The bells rung merry peals ; frequent salutes were fired ; 
and the ladies filled the windows of the houses, and join- 
ed in the welcome of their country's friend. 

VISIT TO THE NAVY YARD. 

The General with the procession from Boston, joined 
by the Charlestown committee of arrangements, then 
proceeded to the United States Navy-yard, where the 
whole alighted, and the General was received by Com- 
modore Bainbridge. 

A fine body of Marines, under Major Wainwright, sa- 
luted him on his entrance ; followed by a national salute 
from the water battery of the yard. The General after 
being introduced to the officers ot the station, conducted 
by the Commodore, visited the warehouses, lofts, ship- 
houses, ships in ordinary, and appendages of this splen- 
did and spacious establishment. He appeared much grat- 
ified with their excellent order and neatness. He was 
then taken in a barge, on board the Columbus ship of the 
line, (followed by the company in other barges) and was 
received by another national salute from her lower deck 
guns. This superb man of war was fully dressed in the 
flags of all the maritime nations, and made a delightful 
appearance. Her roof was manned by seamen, as was 
tne entire roof of the extensive ship-house of the new 
man of war on the stocks. The flags of the United 
States were displayed from various stafls ; and at the 
entrance of the yard were three arches formed of co- 
lours and evergreens, bearing these inscriptions. — " Octo- 
ber 19th, 1781." — « fVjlSHlAGTOJW" « LJFJY- 
ETTE." The vessels in the vicinity also displayed their 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 113 

colours. The General theo proceeded to the Commo- 
dore's residence, was again saluted on leaving the yard, 
and there introduced to the ladies of the Commodore 
and other officers, and pal-took, with the company, of a 
sumptuous collation. He afterwards visited Major 
Wain wright's quarters. Wherever he appeared he was 
received with cheers and salutations. 

On his return to Boston, he paid a visit to Faneuil-hall. 
On entering he said, " This is indeed the cradle of Ameri- 
can independence" He afterwards visited the excellent 
armories over the hall. 

He then took carriage for South Boston, accompanied 
by Gov. Eustis, Gov. Brooks, the Mayor, and others ; 
stopping to view the spot near Boylston Market, where 
once grew " Liberty Tree" so famous in our annals from 
1760 to 1776. After passing South Boston, he visited 
the New-England guards, who were on camp duty at Savin 
Hill, in Dorchester, and witnessed their skill at target 
firing ; from whence he proceeded to the residence of 
Gov. Eustis to dine. 

In the target firing, General Lafayette, and the Gov- 
ernor honored the company, by firing each a gun with his 
own hand. The General's shot was a very successful 
one, and struck the target a little above the centre. The 
members of the company and many of the guests were in- 
troduced to General Lafayette in the marquee, where a 
collation of fruit and wine was prepared for the guests. 

On Saturday, numerous deputations, and revolutionary 
characters, called on the General at his quarters. One 
of the latter exhibited the firearm, by a discharge of 
which the first British regular, killed in the war of the 
revolution, was shot at Concord bridge, on the memora- 
ble 19th April, 1775. The event is recorded in the an- 
nals of that day. Satisfactory evidence was given, that 
the ball which did the first execution on the British ad- 
vance guard, was fired from this gun. The General ap- 
peared much pleased at seeing this relic, and suggested 
the expediency of perpetuating its identity, by inserting 
a plate on the stock, with an inscription, containing the 
15 



114 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

particulars of the event. It belonged to Capt. Buttnck. 
and was presented by one of his descendants, who prom- 
ised to execute the suggestion of the General ; and re- 
marked, that the gun should be transmitted to the latest 
posterity of the original owner. 

The General then repaired to the State house, and re- 
ceived the felicitations of the citizens of both sexes, who 
during two hours, presented themselves in continued suc- 
cession. One of the revolutionary worthies, holding in 
his hand a number of old continental bills, thus address- 
ed the Guest : — "//ere, General, are some of our old 
Friends, who helped us to carry on the war." Among the 
presentations was an interesting Greek youth, from Scio,. 
named Pandies Kali, whose father was one of the first 
martyrs in the present eventful struggle of the Greek 
patriots^ being one of the hostages executed at Constan- 
tinople. This lad, with his mother and family, fled from 
the sack of Scio, and he is now receiving an education un 
der the care of our foreign missionary society. He was 
noticed with much affection by the General. 

In the afternoon of Saturday, he visited Medford ac- 
companied by the Mayor. 

It was at a very late hour, that the citizens of Med- 
ford ascertained that the town would be honored with 
his presence ; but their preparations to welcome him 
were appropriate and elegant. The houses to the west- 
ward of the Governor's residence, and the meeting house, 
were filled with ladies, — the scholars were formed in 
line on the street, filled with citizens^ the bell rung a 
peal, a salute of artillery was fired, and several arches 
were thrown across the road, decorated with wreaths of 
flowers and flags. One of the arches bore this inscription. 
"WELCOME 

To OUR HILLS AND BROOKS." 

Under this arch the selectmen of the town, w T ere as- 
sembled : — when Turell Tufts, Esq. their chairman, de- 
livered to him the following address : 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 115 

General Lafayette. — The selectmen of'Medforcl, as the 
representatives of the town, deem it a grateful and hon- 
orable part of their duty to bid you welcome. 

They are proud, Sir, that Medford is the birth place of 
one of your companions in arms. A man, who, by his 
bravery in the field, his patriotism and civic virtues, con- 
tributed to acquire as much glory to our country, as hon- 
or to himself. 

We rejoice, Sir, that you both live to meet again, and 
to enjoy together the consolations fairly derived from 
your virtuous and heroic deeds. 

The minds of our countrymen traced your course with 
anxious solicitude, through the French revolution, from 
your first success in the cause of liberty, until the spirit of 
oppression confined you to a dungeon ; and their hearts 
were gladdened, when, by the influence of our great and 
good Washington, their friend was at last set free. In 
the rich harvest you are now gathering of the express- 
ions of esteem and gratitude of this numerous people, 
whose freedom and happiness your exertions so essential- 
ly contributed to establish, we hope you w ill find some 
compensation for all your trials, sacrifices and suffering — 
and we feel much complacency that, in this respect, you 
have gained so complete a triumph over the monarchs of 
the world. 

Again, Sir, we bid you a most cordial welcome ! and 
hope the testimonials of approbation, you are receiving 
from every heart and every tongue, will forever remain 
an instructive lesson to mankind, that patriots Avho en- 
dure faithfully to the end, shall not lose their reward. 

The following is the substance of the General's reply. 

Sir — I am most happy, in visiting the town of my old 
brother soldier and friend, General Brooks, to be receiv- 
ed with so kind a welcome. You speak of some com- 
pensation ! compensation, Sir, — the smallest part of the 
delight which I have experienced, would more than re- 
pay me for all sufferings, past, or to come. 

I beg you to accept my grateful acknowledgments for 
this cheering welcome. 



116 TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

This welcome was repeated by the acclamations of the 
assembled citizens, and renewed on his landing ai 
the Governor's residence. The civic arches and decor- 
ations were honorable to the zeal and good feelings of 
the citizens, and to the taste of the ladies of Medford. 
who took a lively interest in this spontaneous tribute o£ 
gratitude. 

On Sunday he attended public worship at the meet- 
ing-house in Brattle square. A discourse appropriate 
to the occasion was delivered by the Rev. Mr. Palfrey.* 
He dined with the ex-president, Adams, at Quincy. On 
his way he was greeted by the citizens of Dorchester, 
Milton and Quincy, and on his return, visited Dr. Hol- 
brook at Milton. 

On Monday, he attended the grand military 
parade, which took place on the Boston common, 
agreeably to the order issued by the commander in 
chief. — It is believed this was the most brilliant military 
spectacle ever exhibited in Boston. About 6,500 soldiers 
were under arms. 

General Lafayette, and the other guests invited, by 
the commander in chief, were escorted from the state 
house to the place of review on the common, at 12 
o'clock, by the independent cadets, under LA, Col. T. C. 
Amory. On approaching the lines, General Lafayette 
received the guard honors due to the highest military 
rank, and was there received by Major General Crane, 
commanding the division, and by him conducted to the 
governor's marquee. He was welcomed by the unani- 
mous shouts and acclamations of the whole body of 
troops, at ordered arms. At 1 o'clock, he advanced on 
foot to the front of General Appleton's brigade, and re- 
ceived its standing salute, and immediately afterwards 
the salute of General Lyman's brigade. The whole di- 
vision then paid the marching salute. 

♦Several of the Boston clergymen delivered discourses appropriate to the 
occasion. The text of the Rev. Mr. Pierpont, was Prov. xxvii. 10th. "Thin 
own friend and thy father's friend forsake not." 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 117 

At two o'clock, the commander in chief, with invited 
guests, to t'ie number of about one thousand, among 
.whom were the officers of General Appleton's brigade, 
assembled at the marquee, near the old fort, west of the 
great tree, and sat down to a collation. This was the 
largest number that were ever seated at a single dinner 
table, in this city.* 

After the collation, General Applcton manoeuvred his 
brigade for an hour, and the Boston brigade was then 
manoeuvred by General Lyman. 

The day was unusually fine, and no accident occurred, 
,to cast a gloom over its festivity. General Lafayette 
expressed himself in terms of unqualified admiration at 
the excellence of our militia. The common presented 
the appearance of an encampment. Besides the mar- 
quee erected for the commander in chief, and his guests, 
there were, perhaps, over two hundred tents for the ac- 
commodation of the troops. 

The concourse of spectators was very great ; greater 
than at any military parade. The windows of the hous- 
es, in the vicinity of the common, were filled with fash- 
ionable and elegant females. The streets around the 
common, affording a view of the parade, were actually 
thronged with people on foot, and with carriages. Be- 
tween five and six o'clock, the commander in chief, La- 
fayette, and the guests, were escorted by the independent 
cadets, from the common to General Lafayette's lodgings. 
His progress from the common, to his lodgings, was 
accompanied with the cheers of the troops, and of the 
assembled spectators. After his entrance to his lodgings, 
he appeared at the windows, accompanied by the Gov- 
ernor, when he was again loudly and repeatedly cheer- 
ed. He had, on this occasion, a fine sample of a Boston 
mob : a collection of intelligent, rational, and inde- 
penednt freemen, publicly testifying their gratitude to a 
national benefactor. 

In the evening, he received, at his own lodgings, the 
visits of the ladies of the city, of whom a large number 

f 1400 plates were set. Tt ia thought about 1200 persons dined. 



1 18 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

honored him with their company.* The dining marquee, 
on the common, was brilliantly illuminated. It made a 
very beautiful and splendid appearance. A house on 
the neck, was also illuminated, with very good effect. 

During the visit of the General at Boston, a meeting 
of the citizens of Portland, convened by order of the 
constituted authorities, was held for the purpose of 
taking the sense of its citizens, in relation to the propri- 
ety of presenting an invitation to the General to visit that 
town, on his present excursion to Boston. At this meet- 
ing, it was unanimously agreed, to extend an invitation to 
him ; a committee of arrangements was chosen, and the 
letter of invitation forwarded ; to which the General 
was pleased to make the following reply. 

" Boston, August 27, 1824. 

" Sir — When I had the heartfelt gratification to em- 
bark on this happy visit to the United States, I anticipa- 
ted the pleasure to pay my respects to the citizens of 
the state of Maine, and the town of Portland. That in- 
tention could not but be confirmed by the kind and flat- 
tering invitation, you have been pleased to transmit. I 
much regret, that previous engagements, and the propri- 
ety not to defer, for a long time, my journey towards the 
seat of government, at Washington city, make it impossi- 
ble for me, at this moment, to indulge my eager desire to 
visit the town of Portland. But, on my return to this 
part of the union, and most certainly before I leave the 
American shore, I shall have the honour, personally, to 
offer to the citizens of Portland, the tribute of my respeef 
and gratitude. 

Be pleased, Sir, to accept my respectful acknowledg- 
ments and regard, 

(Signed) LAFAYETTE. 

Isaac Adams, Esq. Chairman of the Selectmen of 
the town of Portland." 

*He also attended a ball in the evening, given by II. Elliot, Esq. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 119 

DEPARTURE FROM BOSTON. 

On Tuesday morning the General left the city, escort- 
ed by a troop of cavalry, accompanied by the aids of the 
Governor on his tour eastward, as far as Portsmouth. 

On entering Lynn he was received by military and 
civic honors, and escorted by a numerous cavalcade, to 
the hotel, which was beautifully decorated, where he 
was introduced to the citizens, and welcomed by the 
chairman of the Committee,* in the following address : 

General — The inhabitants of this town have chosen 
me their organ, to greet you with a sincere and hearty 
Avelcome on this joyful occasion : — A duty on which I en- 
ter with mingled emotions of profound veneration, grat- 
itude and affection towards you, Sir, our nation's early, 
disinterested and unvarying friend and benefactor. 

The deep, intense, and indelible feelings of this free 
and happy republic towards you, General, who so emin- 
ently and successfully contributed to raise her to her 
present proud and powerful attitude among the nations 
of the earth, can be no more forcibly illustrated than in 
that spontaneous homage of the heart, which you see 
displayed around you on your arrival upon our iavoured 
shores ; and which, like a halo of glory, encircles you in 
your progress through our country. This, General, is a 
language not to be misunderstood ; compared with which 
the most laboured declamation must be faint and power- 
less. 

Although your present appearance among us, like the 
transit of abrilliant and beneiicient planet, commissioned to 
proclaim good will to man, in its rapid career among innu- 
merable worlds, is short and fleeting, the emanations of 
the bright and joyous light which is shed around you, 
will continue with us to guide our steps, and cheer our 
hearts to the latest moment of our existence. 

Permit me now, General, to express my individual joy 
at the happy consummation of those ardent wishes, which 
1 had the honor to express to you twelve years since in 

* John White, 12sq. 



1-20 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

your native country — for you have re-visited us, and you 
see that — " All hearts and arms are open to receive 
you." 

A procession was then formed, which escorted him 
through the town, to the boundary line of Marblehead* 
The procession passed between the children of the town 
who, were all neatly dressed, and threw boquets of flow- 
ers before the General and into his carriage. Beautiful 
civic arches, decorated with evergreen, and surmouuted 
by wreaths, enclosing inscriptions, were erected at inter- 
vals, under which the procession passed. 

" Welcome LAFAYETTE ! Conqueror of hearts! 

" WASHINGTON and LAFAYETTE/' 

" October 19th, 1781." 

« Welcome, LAFAYETTE ! To thee we owe the 

sweets of liberty." 

" Thou gavest to us thirteen talents. — Lo ; we have 

gained eleven more. Receive our gratitude.'" 

" The voice of ten millions welcome," 

" The man whom the people delight to honor. 

Welcome Lafayette. 

Yorktown. Monmouth." 

On the reverse of the last arch was inscribed : — 

" Tho 1 lost to sight, to memory dear." 

On his entrance into Marblehead, he was welcomed 
by a salute of thirteen guns, accompanied by shouts of 
applause from the whole population of the town, assem- 
bled with the troops, to receive him. He was conducted 
to his residence, where he was formally welcomed by the 
chairman* of the committee, in the following address : — 

" Sir, — In behalf of the inhabitants of Marblehead, 
we bid you welcome to this town, after an absence of 
forty years — in which time, alternately the victim of 
tyranny under various shapes, you have experienced a 
variety of scenes and sufferings; peculiar to human na- 
ture, for no other cause, but advocating the rights of the 
people. 

* Hon. Mr.Prince. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 121 

Since your first arrival in this country, in the dark 
days of our Revolution, to assist and promote the same, 
your name has been familiar with us as an adopted pat- 
riot. But your landing here on your arrival from France ; 
your commanding afterwards in the expedition at Rhode 
Island, where numbers of us were ; and your visit to this 
town, after the peace of 1783, has created a peculiar at- 
tachment in us towards you, in addition to the general 
attachment throughout the country, universally expres- 
sed at this time. At the same time, our attachments are 
not altogether confined to you, for attentions or services 
to us, or to our country, in war or peace ; if so, they 
would imply local prejudices, such as we do not admit ; 
but, we presume, they are from a higher source. 

Lafayette ! Like thy friend and associate, Washing- 
ton, thou hast immortalized thy name, not on the tombs 
of slaughtered millions, nor on the ruins of mournful prin- 
cipalities, kingdoms, and empires ; but on the brilliant 
pages of illustrious philanthropists, on the durable annals 
of the great, the good, the divine-like benefactors of man. 
Your return to this country, at tiiis time, we consider 
providential, and your life having been thus prolonged, 
we consider to be for some wise and good purpose, bv 
him who overrules the destinies of man. 

You are among the few surviving patriots of the Rev- 
olution, Avho remain, to this day, as monuments of the 
same ; as such, among other traits of -character, we re- 
ceive you ; but, above all, as the friend of man. 

Numbers of us are personally acquainted with you ; 
and though not present with you, in your absence, we 
have sympathized with you, in all your various fates, 
through revolutions, and counter-revolutions ; at Magde- 
burg and Olmutz. There was no separation in our at- 
tachments ; though oceans rolled between, and climates 
interposed, tnere could be no bar to the mind. And 
now, restored to your adopted country, our enjoyment 
is only marred, by anticipating your departure, never to 
return. Could this land, (by vour assistance,) a land of 
16 



J 22 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

liberty, retaining the ashes of the fathers of the revolu- 
tion, contain yours also, they may be preserved as relics 
to lighten up the name of liberty to future generations. 

But, while remaining here, or returning-, we can only 
cxprcss to you our sincere grat illations on this occasion, 
and leave the issue with Him, in whose special care and 
direction may you be continued, whilst here, and after- 
wards be received to enjoy the rewards of the virtuous. 
And to Hun who makcth and unmaketh, who hunibleth 
and exalteth at his will, we commend you." 

General Lafayette gave the following reply :— — 

" I am very happy to find myself once more among 
the patriotic citizens of Marblehcad. The very active 
part they took in the Revolution ; the scenes and suf- 
ferings they have experienced, I am w r ell acquainted 
with. To be thus cordially received, is, to me, a source 
of joy and satisfaction. Accept the testimony of my 
pleasure and gratitude, for the affectionate feeling you 
have evinced towards me." 

He then partook of a public breakfast, after which 
he was introduced to the citizens, among whom he 
recognised many of his old revolutionary friends. 
At his request, he was introduced to Mrs. Robert Hoop- 
er, a daughter of General Glover, and expressed much 
feeling, on meeting a member of the family of the late 
General, to whom he was warmly attached. He was 
then escorted to the Salem line, under a salute of twenty 
four guns. Here he was welcomed by Colonel Putnam, 
chairman of the selectmen of Salem, in the following- 
address : — 

" General, — The citizens of Salem, through their se- 
lectmen, bid you welcome to the town. 

When our town was last honoured by your presence, 
you Avitnessed the gratitude of the generation, for whom 
you had fought, ana whose liberties you had aided in es- 
tablishing. 

You now find, Sir, a new generation, ready to welcome 
you. The forty years that have elapsed, since you last 
Honored us, have not dimmed the recollection of your 



TOUit OF LAFAYETTE. I k ^> 

services, or cooled the ardor of our gratitude. Your 
steady and unwavering devotion since that period to the 
cause of liberty in the old world, haft raised for you in 
our bosoms, a monument of gratitude, which will endure, 
whilst our memories retain an image, or our hearts a 
feeling, And, Sir, permit me to add, that I shall al- 
ways consider that day the proudest of my life, on which 
J had the honor of introducing General LaFaWitte mto 
the ancient town of Salem. 

General Lafayette replied in substance, as follows : — 

" That he recollected with gratitude the attention that 
was paid him when he last visited Salem ; and that it 
gave him great pleasure, to be welcomed, in so flattering 
a manner, by a new generation of the inhabitants oi' this 
ancient and patriotic town." 

The General then took his seat in an elegant ba- 
rouche, accompanied by the Hon. Judge Story, president 
of the day. A long procession was then formed, of the 
cavalry, and cavalcade of citizens, escorting the General, 
who was followed by carriages, containing the suite oi 
the General, the officers of the town, and citizens gene- 
rally, and moved into town under a salute of artillery, 

Arches were thrown over the south bridge, orna- 
mented with Hags, and bearing a label, with the following 
inscription : — 

" Welcome, Illustrious Chief ! — Receive the pledges 

of thy children, to sustain, with fidelity, the 

principles thai fust associated Lafayette 

with the destinies of America." 

The procession entered Kssex street, under an elegant 
arch, which was enwrcathed with evergreen, and deco- 
rated with standards oi' military companies. On this 
arch were inscribed the names of Washington, Lafay- 
ette, and other distinguished Revolutionary soldiers. At 
the head of North street, another beautiful arch was 
erected, covered with wreaths of evergreen and spruce, 
from the centre of which were suspended portraits of 
Washington and Lafayette. On this arch was inscrib 
ed — 

" Honour to him who fought and bled for the 
Peace and happiness we now enjoy. v 



124 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

The procession entered Boston street, under another 
elegant arch, ornamented in a similar manner, and bear- 
ing the following inscriptions : — 

*.* Lafayette, the friend of liberty, we welcome 
to the land of liberty. 

" He did not forget us in our adversity — In our 

prosperity we remember his services 

with gratitude." 

It entered Federal street, under another arch, ele- 
gantly decorated with evergreen and spruce, and bearing 
the likeness of Lafayette. A drapery of evergreen 
flowers, &c. was drawn across North street, on which 
was the following inscription : — 

" Leslie's Repulse, 1775. 
» Lafayette's Renown, 1824." 

The procession passed down Brown street, and en- 
tered the mall under the eastern arch, which was en- 
wreathed with evergreen and flowers, and bore the fol- 
lowing inscription, in large letters, formed of box leaves : 
" Lafayette." 

It then passed between the two lines of the pupils of 
the different schools, all bearing Lafayette badges, and 
entered the street, under the western arch, which was 
likewise decorated with wreaths, and bore a label, on 
which was inscribed, in large letters, formed of oak 
leaves, ' La Grange.' 

The General was conducted to the Lafayette coffee 
house, where he received the following beautiful ad- 
dress from the Hon. Judge Story : 
"GENERAL LAFAYETTE, 

Sir — Fortv years have elapsed since the inhabitants 
of this town had the pleasure to welcome you within its 
limits. Many, who then hailed your arrival with pride 
and exultation, have descended to the grave, and cannot 
greet you on your long desired return. But, thanks to a 
good Providence, many are yet alive, who recollect with 
grateful sensibility the universal joy of that occasion. — 
Your disinterested zeal in embarking in a cause deemed 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. J 25 

almost hopeless — your personal sacrifices in quitting a 
home, endeared by all the blessings with which affection 
and virtue can adorn life — your toils and perils in the 
conflicts of war and the vicissitudes of a discouraging ser- 
vice — your modest dignity and enthusiasm on receiving 
the homage of a free people : These were all fresh in 
their memories, and gave an interest to the scene, which 
cannot be described, but which time has hallowed with 
his most touching grace. 1 stand now in the presence of 
some, venerable in age and character, who were the de- 
lighted witnesses of that interview, and whose hearts 
again glow with the feelings of that happy day. 

To us of a younger generation — the descendants of 
your early friends and companions in arms, a different 
but not less interesting privilege belongs. We are al- 
lowed the enviable distinction of meeting in his riper 
years, one, whom our fathers loved in their youth. We 
welcome you to our country, to our homes, to our hearts. 
We have read the history of your achievements, your 
honors and your sulferings. They are associated with 
all that is dear to us — with the battle grounds consecra- 
ted by the blood of our heroes, with the tender rccollco 
tions of our departed statesmen — with the affectionate 
reverence of our surviving patriots. Can we forget that 
our country was poor, and struggling alone in the doubt- 
ful contest for independence, and you crossed the At- 
lantic at the hazard of fortune, lame and life, to cheer us 
in our defence ? That you recrosscd it to solicit naval 
and military succours from the throne of France, and re- 
turned with triumphant success ? That your gallantry 
checked in the southern campaigns the inroads of a 
brave and confident enemy ? That your military labors 
closed only with the surrender at Yorktown, and thus 
indissolubly united your name with the proud events of 
that glorious day ? We cannot forget these things if we 
would — we would not forget them if we could. They 
will perish only when America ceases to be a na- 
tion. 



126 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

But we have yet higher sources of gratification on the 
present occasion. You have been, not merely the friend 
of America, but of France, and of liberty throughout the 
world. During a long life in the most trying scenes, you 
have done no act for which virtue need blush, or human- 
ity weep. Your private character has not cast a shade 
on your public honors. In the palaces of Paris and the 
dungeons of Olmutz, in the splendor of power, and the 
gloom of banishment, you have been the friend of Jus- 
tice, and the assertor of the rights of man. Under every 
misfortune, you have never deserted your principles. — 
What earthly prince can afford consolation like this ? — 
The favor of Princes and the applause of senates sink 
into absolute nothingness in comparison with the approv- 
ing conscience of a life devoted to the good of mankind. 
At this very moment you are realizing the brightest vis- 
ions of your youth, in the spectacle of ten millions of 
people, prosperous and happy under a free government, 
whose moral strength consists in the courage and intelli- 
gence of its citizens. These millions welcome your ar- 
rival to the shores of the west with spontaneous una- 
imity ; and the voice, which now addresses you, feeble 
as it is, repeats but the thoughts, that are ready to burst 
from the lips of every American." 

GENERAL LAFAYETTE'S REPLY. 

" 0« my happy return to this shore of liberty, 1 hai 
anticipated the pleasure to revisit the town of Salem, to 
witness her so much increased prosperity, to recall with 
surviving old friends our revolutionary recollections. — 
But in the affectionate welcome of the new generations, 
I find additional causes for delightful gratification. 

You have been pleased, Sir, to allude to several cir- 
cumstances of my life. The first of them I shared in 
common with my dear companions during our American 
glorious struggle. In the transactions of another hemis- 
phere, 1 have made it a constant object not to be unwor- 
thy of the American education it had been my happy lot- 
to receive. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 127 

I request you, Sir, the gentlemen of the committee, and 
all the citizens of Salem, to accept of the respectful 
thanks of a grateful and very anciently affectionate 
heart." 

The General was then introduced to the citizens, and 
accompanied by the subscribers to the public dinner, and 
invited guests, was escorted to Hamilton hall by the bat- 
talion of light infantry. 

The whole was enchanting, and resembled the embel- 
lishments of a fairy palace, as described in eastern tales. 
An elegant arch was erected over the seat, occupied by 
the guest of the nation, around the pillars of which, 
were entwined wreaths of evergreen and roses, and 
scrolls, bearing the names of the presidents of the Uni- 
ted States. The arch was mazarine blue, on which 
were thirteen gold stars, and was surmounted by a 
beautiful eagle, holding in his beak a wreath of evergreen 
and flowers. Under the arch, was a bust of Washington, 
crowned with an olive wreath, and below, a beautiful 
picture of the declaration of independence, surrounded 
by a chain of gold letters, the initials of the states of the 
Union. In the back ground, were the French and Uni- 
ted States flags, festooned up, and forming a beautiful 
drapery. In the recesses, on each side of the General, 
were triumphal arches, wreathed with evergreen and 
roses, and bearing bows and arrows. — The pilasters of 
the hall were decorated with wreaths, and the walls 
were covered with elegant paintings, and festoons of ev- 
ergreens and roses. The windows were ornamented 
with yellow drapery, bound with evergreens, and fes- 
tooned with roses. In front of the orchestra, was sus- 
pended, an elegant harp, with golden strings, encircled 
with a wreath of evergreen. The mirrors and chande- 
liers were likewise decorated with roses, evergreen and 
gold. 

Over the orchestra, the following inscriptions wen* 
bung : — 

" 1796." 

Welcome, welcome he the bmve. 
To the homes he fought to save. 

Washington. 



128 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

Lafayette, our friend in times which tried men's souls. 
La Grange. 
Mount Vernon. 
Lafayette in America ; 

Ou pent on etre mieux 
Qu 1 au sein de sa famille. 

On one side of the General was inscribed, 

* v Hail, gallant chief, our country's early friend ! 
Long life be thine, and brightening to the end." 

On the other side, appeared the following: — 

*' Though France claim thy birth, here at home shalt thou be, 
For thine is the love of the brave and the free." 

All the decorations exhibited beauty, combined with 
taste, and formed an elegant tribute from the virtues and 
graces of those, who were prevented from manifesting 
otherwise their gratitude, to the protector of the 
daughters of America. 

The General left the table, at half past five, and Avas 
escorted to Beverly, by the battalion of cavalry. On 
entering Winter street, he passed under an arch, beauti- 
fully decorated, from which was suspended, a label of 
duck, bearing the following inscription : — 
American Duck : 

" While winds shall blow, and st-as shnil roll, 
While aught remains that's good and great, 
Our native duck, from pole to pole, 
Shall waft the name of Lafayette." 

Another arch was erected at the draw of Beverly 
bridge, and as the General passed under it, he was wel- 
comed by a national salute, fired in Beverly. 

Beverly. — In passing through this town, the General 
was welcomed by the Hon. Mr. Rantoul, in the following 
address : — 

" General, — The inhabitants of Beverly bid you wel- 
come. We welcome you to our country ; that country 
which owes so much to your aid in the acquisition of her 
independence. We receive you, not merely as the 
friend of our beloved country, but as the friend of man. 
Your labors, your sacrifices, your sufferings, in the cause 
of liberty, demand our gratitude. Tyrants receive the 
commanded adulation of their slaves, but to the benefac- 
tors of our race, belong the spontaneous effusions of our 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 129 

hearts. Accept our sincere congratulations, that you 
live to witness the order, the prosperity, the happiness, 
that results from our iVee institutions ; and may the 
evening of your days be solaced with the reflection, that 
those principles of government, to the support of which 
your life has been devoted, and which alone can secure 
the enjoyment of rational liberty, are fast spreading their 
influence through the whole family of man. Wishing 
you long life and uninterrupted happiness, we bid you 
farewell." 

The General arrived in Ipswich, between seven and 
eight o'clock, and alighted from his carriage at the meet- 
ing house. A large number of ladies • and gentlemen 
were assembled to receive him. He was then address- 
ed by Nathaniel Lord, Jr. Esq. in behalf of the inhabi- 
tants of Ipswich, and received the personal congratula- 
tions of all, who chose to be introduced to him. In about 
an hour he was conducted to the public house of Mr. 
Treadwell, and there welcomed by the committee of the 
town. After partaking of a collation, he left for New- 
buryport, in a close carriage, followed by his suite, and 
escorted by a battalion of cavalry. 

He passed through Rowley, and Newbury Old Town, 
in both which towns the houses on the way-side were 
illuminated for the occasion, and reached the boundaries 
of Newburyport about half past ten. On entering the 
town, he was met by the Newburyport artillery and 
Washington light infantry, and by them escorted to his 
lodgings in the mansion house of James Prince, Esq. 
which was generously given up by that gentleman for 
the accommodation of the General, and his suite. On 
passing the town lines a salute of 24 guns was fired.-— 
Rockets were let off and the bells rung merry peals. 

On the General's arriving at his lodgings, an address 
Was made in behalf of the corporation and citizens, bj 
the Hon. E. Moseley, of which the following is a copy : 

" General Lafayette.- — The citizens of Newburyport 
are happy in this opportunity of greeting, with the warm- 
est welcome a distinguished benefactor of their countrv. 
17 



isu 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE* 



The important services, which you rendered tins peo> 
pic in the (lay of their distress; tlie devotedncss which 
you manifested in their perilous cause, and the dangers 
which yousbught for their relief, are incorporated in our 
history and firmly engraven upon our hearts. 

We would lead you to our institutions of learning, 
charity, and religion; we would point you to our hills 
and vallics, covered with flocks and smiling in abundance, 
that you may behold the happy effects of those princi- 
ples of liberty, which you was so instrumental in estab- 
lishing. 

Our children cluster about you to receive a patriot's 
blessing. Our citizens press forward to shew their grati- 
tude. Our nation pays you a tribute, which must re- 
move the reproach, that republics are ungrateful. 

As the zealous advocates for civil liberty, we give you 
welcome ; as the brave defender of an oppressed peo- 
ple, we make you welcome. As the friend and asso- 
ciate of our immortal Washington, we bid you welcome. 
The General made a verbal reply, couched in simple 
terms, and expressive of the satisfaction he felt at the 
cordial hospitality with which he was received. 

Supper was then served up, and the General and his 
suite, the committee of arrangements of Ncwburyport — 
the marshals and clergy partook of the same. After 
breakfast the next morning, the doors were thrown open 
to the citizens generally. The General cordially took by 
the hand, all who were introduced to him. Upon the 
young he smiled, and to the old he spoke. After the cer- 
emony was over, the General set out for Portsmouth. — 
The rain unfortunately prevented those who would 
otherwise have escorted him from the town. 

The General lodged, while in this town, in the identi- 
cal room that was occupied by the immortal WASH- 
INGTON, when he passed through the town, in 1789. — 
The mansion house belongs to N. Tracy, Esq. and the 
bed and its appendages were tbe same in which Wash- 
ington slept. 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 131 

Among the persons who visited General Lafayette in 
Newbury port, were not a tew of his old companions in 
arms, whom he received with every token of* the kindest 
remembrance — all seeming to awake in the General's 
mind the memory oi' those well-fought and hard-won 
fields of battle, id which either he or his compatriots had 
acquired their fame. To such men, an interview with 
the Marquis, (as he was always termed in the army,) the 
gallant officer, the generous and skilful commander, whom 
they had hitherto seen only in the flower and strength 
of his youthful prowess, but whom they now beheld 
grown grey and infirm like themselves under the sorrows 
and persecutions of time, must have been, as it evidently 
was, deeply affecting. While persons of every age and 
sex were in the act of being introduced to the General, 
he whispered to Col. Wiggles worth : ' You and I, colonel, 
are the contemporaries of four generations of Americans.' 
But of the many veterans of the continental army, who 
were presented to the General, none produced a stronger 
title to notice than Mr. Daniel Foster, who is the only 
man in the town belonging to Lafayette's select corps of 
light infantry. He was a non-commissioned officer there- 
in, of course constantly about the General, and possesses 
now the very sword which the General gave him in com- 
mon with the other officers of his favorite and most ex- 
cellent corps. Mr. Foster held this sword before the 
General, when introduced, with the emotions of honest 
pride, and stating the circumstances, welcomed the Gen- 
eral to our shores, and told him that he was proud to 
see him once more on American soil, and that his sons' 
sons participated in his happiness on the joyful occasion. 
When Lafayette learnt that one of his own infantry stood 
before him, who had often commanded his quarter guard, 
and when he saw his own mark on the blade of the sword 
half-drawn from the scabbard, he greeted his old soldier 
very cordially, and assured him that he looked upon him 
k as one of his own family.' Some persons affect to 
speak slightingly of such things; but they who can fail 
tp sympathize in the emotions of an aged soldier on 



132 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

meeting his General after the lapse of half a century., 
have not hearts or souls of a very enviable mould. How 
many painful, and how many grateful feelings must the 
scene call up in their breasts ! the sadness of defeat, 
the heart stirring notes of triumph and victory, the joy- 
ous bursts of military enthusiasm, and the wearing hard- 
ships of duty in camp and field, must then rise up in mem- 
ory before them, mingled and contrasted into mellowed 
pictures of the eventful vicissitudes of other days. — 
How rapidly must their minds hurry over that period, 
which to them alone is fact, but to most of those about 
them is history, — that period, during which the fair fab- 
ric of our liberty was laid, and its foundations cemented 
with their blood — that period, which began in storm, 
but opened into the sunshine of prosperity, — that period, 
which witnessed the birth and the growth of re- 
publican America ! and how keen must be their emo- 
tions on seeing Lafayette, whose early devotion to the 
cause of our country, whose zeal in joining it in spite of 
all opposing obstacles, have in them something chivalric 
and poetic, and whose whole career bears the stamp of 
romance, whether we regard it when he was a fortunate 
General in front of the armies of young freedom in the 
West, — or at the head of the national guards of his own 
revolutionized country, — or fleeing before the factions of 
Paris and Robespierre's reign of terror, — or imprisoned 
in the dungeons of Olmutz, — or, as now, receiving the 
spontaneous homage of ten millions of people, who hon- 
or him alive, as they would revere his memory if dead, 
and already canonize him among the heroes and patriots, 
of America. 



RECEPTION AT PORTSMOUTH. 

General Lafayette entered Portsmouth, on Wednes- 
day, where his arrival was hailed, by all its citizens, 
with pride and exultation. There was a glow of unaf- 
fected delight, on every countenance, which gave an 
honest and heartfelt welcome. Lafayette might 

M Read his history in a nation's eyes." 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 133 

He was received at Hampton Falls, by the committee 
..of arrangements, who accompanied him through Green- 
land, to the limits of the town, where the selectmen of 
Portsmouth were waiting to receive him. He proceeded 
from thence, under the escort of a party of citizens, on 
horseback, and followed by a long train of our most re- 
spectable inhabitants, in carriages. The procession ex- 
tended nearly two miles. On reaching Wibird's hill, a 
national salute was fired, by a detachment of the Ports- 
mouth artillery, and the bells in town began to ring. 
The General took his seat in an open barouche, attended 
by the Hon. William Ham, chairman of the selectmen, 
and entered the compact part of the town, under a mili- 
tary escort,formed by the StraifordGuards,fromDover,the 
Rockingham Guards, and the Gilman Blues. A short 
distance below, upwards of a thousand children, from the 
several schools, generally dressed in uniform, and wear- 
ing the badge of Lafayette, were arranged on each 
side, and formed a most interesting part of the shew. 
Though the weather was unfavorable, and many of them 
wore only chaplets of flowers on their heads, neither 
clouds nor rain could drive them from their station. — As 
the procession advanced, their shout of " Welcome, La- 
fayette,'' was distinctly heard, above the music of the 
military band, and the cheers of the people. An arch 
of evergreens, very tastefully formed, and bearing appro- 
priate inscriptions, was thrown across Court-street, and 
another, opposite to it, with similar ornaments, at the 
end of Market-street. The procession passed through 
Middle-street, Broad street, Court street, and Congress 
street, to Franklin Hall ; where the General alighted, 
and was welcomed to Portsmouth, by the chairman of 
the selectmen, who made him the following address : — 

" Sir, — The selectmen of Portsmouth, in behalf of 
their fellow citizens, most respectfully and heartily bid 
you welcome ! 

Enjoying, as we do, the happiness of a free govern- 
ment, we cannot but feel grateful to all by whose exer- 
tions it was obtained. Those intrepid men, among our- 



134 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

selves, Avho, in the hour of danger, stood forth, in de* 
fence of their country's rights, have a lasting claim upon 
our regard. But, in contending for the liberty of their 
country, they were striving to secure their own happi- 
ness, and the prosperity of their children. They found a 
motive for exertion in their own interest, which, while it 
derogates nothing from the value of their services, pla- 
ces, in a strong light, the pure zeal, and contempt of pri- 
vate advantage, Avhich led you to our aid, from the shores 
of a foreign land. Their love of liberty was necessarily 
the sentiment of patriotism ; yours was an ardent desire 
for the general welfare of mankind. 

After an absence of forty years from our country, 
most of which have been passed in scenes of unexampled 
excitement and perplexity, it gives us peculiar pleasure 
to find you still the lirm and consistent friend of liberal 
principles. We have watched the progress of your 
eventful life, with unaffected sympathy ; and, whether 
at the head of the national guards ; in the dungeons of 
Magdebourg and Olmutz ; or in the chamber of depu- 
ties, we have found nothing to lessen our esteem for the 
early friend of America. 

Permit us, then, to receive you as our guest ; and to 
pay you such honours as are in our power to bestow. 
They are the voluntary tribute of warm and grateful 
hearts. We wish our children to learn, that eminent 
virtue affords the highest claim to honorable distinction ; 
and that among a free people, merit will not fail of its 
appropriate reward. 

We beg you to accept our sincere wishes for your 
health and happiness ; and our prayers will be offered, 
that your example may animate the wise and good, in ev- 
ery nation, to contend manfully and perseveringly, for the 
freedom and happiness of the world." 

To which the General made the following reply : — 

" Gentlemen, — It would have been to me an inexpressi* 
ble gratification, on this first visit to the eastern parts of 
the Union, after so long an absence, to have been able 
to present the several towns of New Hampshire with 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 135 

my personal respect, and to have witnessed the great 
improvement of a state, to which I am bound by early 
sentiments of attachment and gratitude. 

Obliged, as I find myself, to take a southern course/ 
towards the seat of government, at Washington, I am 
happy to revisit, at least, the town of Portsmouth, where 
the remembrance of past favors mingle, with most grate- 
ful feelings, for your present affectionate and flattering 
reception. 

I thank, you, gentlemen, for your constant concern 
in my behalf, during the vicissitudes, to which you are 
pleased to allude. The approbation of a free, virtuous, 
and enlightened people, would be the highest reward 
for any one who knows how to value true glory ; still 
more so, when it is bestowed on an adopted son. 

To the citizens of Portsmouth, and their worthy se- 
lectmen, 1 offer my most respectful and affectionate ac- 
knowledgments." 

He was then introduced to his excellency Governor 
Morrill, who had left his residence in Goffstown, for the 
purpose of meeting him, and who welcomed him, in be- 
half of the state, in the following address : — 

" General, — Forty years have rolled away, since you 
left this asylum of liberty, for your native country. Dur- 
ing this eventful period, cur cities have advanced, and 
villages have been reared : — but our Langdon, our Cilley, 
our Poor, our Sullivan, and our Washington have passed 
from the stage of human action, and are gone to the 
land of their fathers. Although they are gone, their 
sons survive, and the patriotism and love of liberty which 
animated their breast and excited them to those glorious 
acts, during our revolution, in which you, Sir, shone so 
conspicuously, are now cherished in the bosoms of their 
posterity : — and we rejoice to be numbered among 
them ; and in their name, and in the name of the patriot- 
ic citizens of New-Hampshire generally, allow me to say. 
that it is with no ordinary emotions wc receive and wel- 
come you to oik* state. 



136 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

Wc receive you Sir, as the friend of our nation, of lib- 
erty, and the rights of man. 

We welcome you as the magnanimous hero, who in 
early life, from the most pure and disinterested motives, 
quitted your native country, and repaired to these Colo- 
nies, then the seat of war, (contending for independence) 
to embark in the struggle for the preservation of those 
rights, and the achievement of those privileges, which 
are more precious to the patriot than life itself. , And, 
Sir, it is our ardent desire, that the gratitude of repub- 
lics, but more especially the republic of the United 
States, and the smiles of heaven, may rest upon you 
to the last period of your life.'' 

To which the General replied — alluding in a very af- 
fectionate manner to his former associates, the distin- 
guished patriots of this state — noting some of the chang- 
es which have taken place since he left the country. — 
He expressed high gratification at the evidence of our 
prosperity — and his most feeling acknowledgments for 
the cordial welcome with which he was received. 

Afterwards a large number of strangers and citizens of 
the town were presented to him. Among them were at 
least thirty soldiers of the Revolution, who had served 
under him, and many of whom had travelled a great dis- 
tance for the purpose of seeing him. General Lafayette 
recognised General Smith of Portland, who had served 
under him three years as a captain of light infantry, and 
expressed the highest pleasure in meeting again his old 
companion inarms. He took his hand again and again, 
and declared himself" very happy." A Mr. Dow of the 
neighbourhood, a venerable old man, approached him, 
and while his eyes overflowed with tears, began to count 
over his battles, and tell what" the Marquis" had done 
for him. 

On retiring from the hall, General Lafayette withdrew 
to the mansion house of the late Governor Langdon, 
which had been prepared for his reception with great 
taste and elegance. After taking some rest, he was es- 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 137 

corted to Jefferson hall, where a public dinner was pro- 
vided, and a larger com pany assembled than ever before 
dined together in Portsmouth. 

The company were lull oi* enthusiasm, and greeted, 
with ardent applause, every allusion to the character 
and services of their illustrious guest. 

In the evening, a splendid ball was given at Franklin 
Hall, at which about three hundred ladies Avere pre- 
sented to General Lafayette, each one of whom he took 
by the hand, and addressed with a passing compliment. 

It was a scene of great interest and animation, and 
will not soon be forgotten by those who witnessed it. 
The General appeared to be extremely gratified, and 
lingered in the ball-room nearly half an hour after the 
time appointed for his departure. 

At ten o'clock, General Lafayette retired, amidst the 
enthusiastic applauses of the people, who still thronged 
the streets. Most of the houses, between Franklin 
hall, and his lodgings, were illuminated ; by the light of 
which, he was seen as distinctly, as in his entrance in the 
morning. After partaking of some refreshments, at his 
lodgings, in company with the committee of arrange- 
ments, and the gentlemen from Newburyport, who were 
deputed to attend him, on his return, he left town, on 
his way to Boston, and was accompanied, as far as New- 
buryport, by a deputation from the committee of this 
town. 

From Newburyport, he proceeded to Boston, with 
all convenient despatch. 

In Boston, on Thursday, (September 2d,) after 
taking some repose, the General received a number of 
revolutionary officers and soldiers, and deputations from 
several towns, on his contemplated route to New York. 
A person took this occasion to present him with a neat 
snuff box, made of part of the timber of " Old Iron- 
sides," which was accepted with much pleasure. He 
then repaired to the council chamber, accompanied by 
the mayor, and took leave of his excellency the Gov- 
ernor, and executive council. 
18 



138 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

In the afternoon, he left town, in the carriage provid- 
ed for him, on his return to New York ; accompanied 
by the committee of arrangements, in carriages. At 
West Cambridge, the citizens were assembled, in front of 
the meeting house, to welcome him. Beautiful arches 
were thrown across the road, with suitable inscriptions. 

At the line of Lexington, he was received by a troop 
of horse, and cavalcade of citizens, who escorted him 
into that memorable town. Here was another beautiful 
arch of evergreen and flowers. Motto, — "• Welcome ! 
friend of America, to the birthplace of American liber- 
ty /*' — The salutes were repeated. He was then es- 
corted to the monument, by a body of artillery and ri- 
flemen. He then alighted, and was addressed by Major 
Phinney, to whom he made a very appropriate and af- 
fectionate reply. The scholars of the several schools, 
were paraded on the green, to welcome their country's 
benefactor ; and the huzzas of a large assemblage of 
citizens ; the firing of cannon ; ringing of bells, and dis- 
play of flags and banners, with the associations connected 
with the spot, on which the first blood was shed in the 
cause of American independence, rendered the scene pe- 
culiarly interesting and impressive. Near the monument, 
the General was introduced to fourteen, of the seventy 
minute men, who composed the company, on which the 
British troops first fired, in 1775. A collation was pro- 
vided, in a marquee, pitched on the lawn, of which the 
General partook ; and, at half past four o'clock, pro- 
ceeded on his way to Concord, suitably escorted, amid 
the renewed cheers and benedictions of the gratified 
population. 

At five o'clock, he entered the village of Concord, 
where extensive preparations had been made, for his re- 
ception. An arbour, handsomely decorated, had beer* 
prepared by the ladies, to which he was escorted by 
the military ; and an address delivered by S. Hoar, Esq. 
The General made a brief, but affectionate reply. — Af- 
ter taking some refreshment, he proceeded on hk 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 139 

route ; and, on Thursday night, lodged at the house of 
Mr. Wilder, in Bolton, with whom he had a previous 
acquaintance. The superb mansion, and the grounds, 
were brilliantly illuminated. He was met here, by the 
committee oi' arrangements, from Worcester. 

On the morning oi" Friday, he left the hospitable man- 
sion of his friend, accompanied by his suite, and a numer- 
ous escort, for Lancaster. At the boundary of this place 
he was received by a national salute. The Turnpike 
gate was dressed with garlands and evergreens, bearing 
the appropriate inscription of 

" THE FREE WELCOME THE BRAVE." 

The day was delightful :— and in the centre of the 
town near the Church, an arch of thirty feet, elegantly 
decorated by the hands of the fair, bore the following 
inscription : 

" WELCOME LAFAYETTE. 

The American Eagle in tri'imph shall wave, 
Its pinions of glory to welcome the brave.''' 

An address was delivered to him by the Rev. Dr. 
Thayer ; after which the surviving soldiers of the Rev- 
olution were introduced, and received with those warm 
and touching feeling,s which the pen of the historian is un- 
able to describe. In Sterling, his approach was announc- 
ed by a salute of artillery, and he was introduced by two 
co.apanies of light infantry, under a spacious arch of 
evergreens and flowers bearing a label in gold capitals, 

" WELCOME LAFAYETTE. 

America's adopted Son. 

Brother and friend of Washington,, 
Our land in trouhle found a friend in thee, 
WeMl not forget thee in prosperity." 

He was here addressed by the chairman of the select- 
men ; and after reviewing the artillery he proceeded on 
his journey. His stay at West Boylston was necessari- 
ly short, but he was received with every mark of at- 
tention, which could be bestowed. 

Worcester. — The General entered the limits of Wor- 
cester about half past ten o'clock, and was welcomed 



140 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

by a,general burst of joy from a large body of citizens. — 
Here a barouche, drawn by four beautiful greys, was 
in readiness to receive him. He was accompanied in 
the barouche bv the Hon. Judo-e Lincoln, chairman of. the 
committee of arrangements. 

The grey headed veterans of the Revolution, re- 
gardless of ceremony, pressed up to the barouche to 
shake hands as he passed along. Upon court hill he pas- 
sed under a triumphal arch, so tastefully decorated by the 
ladies as to attract the admiration of all who saw it. — 
The children of the schools, ranged in interesting or- 
der, and ornamented with Lafayette badges, threw lau- 
rel in his path, as he passed. On a string of colors, ex- 
tended across the street near the bank, was the histori- 
cal motto : — t 

" Hitherto I have only cherished your cause, now I go 
to serve it.'-* 

Underneath were inscribed : — 

" BRANDYWINE, JAMESTOWN, VALLEY FORGE, YORKTOWN." 

At all these spots the cheering was increased and pro- 
longed. 

He took breakfast by previous invitation given at Bol- 
ton, with Judge Lincoln's lady, whose spaciou*s* mansion, 
elegantly decorated, had been thrown open, and was fil- 
led to overflowing with ladies, who greeted their coun- 
try's- benefactor with smiles and tears, while their hand- 
kerchiefs were waved in token of welcome. 

After receiving the introduction of the ladies, the 
troops paid him their honors, and received evidence of 
his satisfaction at their soldier like appearance and con- 
duct. He resumed his journey between two and three 
o'clock, and was accompanied by the committee of ar- 
rangements some miles on his way. On this occasion, 
speaking of the attentions he received, he remarked. — 
"It is the homage you pay to the principles of your gov- 
ernment, and not to me." 

* This is in allusion to his reply to the American Commissioners in France, 
1776. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 141 

ADDRESS OF JUDGE LINCOLN. * 

" Gen. Lafayette, — The citizens whom you see as- 
sembled around you, have spontaneously thronged to* 
gether, to offer you the tribute of their affection, their 
respect, their gratitude. ^ 

" In the name of the inhabitants of Worcester, the 
shire of an extensive county of more than 75000 popu- 
lation, in behalf of all who are present, and in anticipa- 
tion of the commands of those, whom distance and want 
of opportunity occasion to be absent from this joyous scene, 
1 repeat to you the salutations, w.hich elsewhere have 
been so impressively offered, upon your arrival in this 
Country, and your visit to this Commonwealth. Wel- 
come, most cordially welcome, to the presence of those 
who now greet you ! 

'• Your name, Sir, is not only associated with the mem- 
orable events of the American Revolution, with the bat- 
tle of Brandy wine, the retreat from Valley Forge, the 
affair near James Town, and the triumph at York Town, 
but the memorials of your services and our obligations, 
exist in the independence of the nation which was ac- 
complished, in the Government of the people which is es- 
tablished, in the institutions and laws, the arts, improve-; 
merits, liberty and happiness, which are enjoyed. The 
sword was beaten into the ploughshare, to cultivate the 
soil which its temper had previously defended, and the 
hill tops shall now echo to the seashore the gratulations 
of the independent proprietors oi' the land, to the com- 
mon benefactor of all ranks and classes of the people. 

" Wherever you go, General, the acclamations of 
freemen await you — their blessings and prayers will fol- 
low you. May you live many years to enjoy the fruits 
of the services and sacrifices, the gallantry and valor of 
your earlier days, devoted to the cause of freedom and 
the rights of man; and may the bright examples of indi- 
vidual glory, and of national happiness, which the history 
of America exhibits, illustrate to the world, the moral 
force of personal virtue, and the rich blessings of civil lib- 
erty in Republican Governments" 



142 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

To which the General made a pertinent and affec- 
tionate reply, the substance of which is as follows : — 

He said, " that he received, with much sensibility, the 
expressions of kind attention, with which he was received 
by the inhabitants of the town and county of Worcester ; 
that he was delighted with the fine country which he 
had seen, and the excellent improvement, and cultivation 
which he had witnessed ; that he saw the best proofs of 
a great, prosperous, and happy people, in the rapid ad- 
vancement of the polite and useful arts, and in the sta- 
bility of our free institutions ; that he was especially 
much gratified in the great improvements of the face of 
the country, because he was himself a farmer ; that he 
felt happy to observe such decided proofs of industry, 
sobriety, and prosperity. He begged the citizens to be 
assured, of his affectionate and grateful recollection of 
their reception of him ; he thanked them for all they 
had manifested towards him, and for the kind expres- 
sions which had been offered him by the committee.' 1 

The reception oi"the General at Charlton, Sturbndge, 
&c. was splendid and appropriate, and equalled those in 
other parts of the country. 

Hartford. — The citizens of this place had made 
splendid preparations for the reception of the General, on 
Friday, (Sept. 6.) It was intended to illuminate the city, 
and many of the citizens walked the streets,in anxious an- 
ticipation of his arrival. — An accident, however, which 
happened to his carriage, at Stafford, detained him there 
during the night. On Saturday morning, at ten o'clock, 
he arrived, amidst the roar of cannon, the ringing of 
bells, and the cheerings of thousands, who had assembled 
from all parts of the state, to pay their homage to the 
early friend of American liberty. 

At Bennett's hotel, where he alighted, he was receiv- 
ed by the mayor, aldermen, and common council, and the 
following address was delivered to him by the mayor. 

" General Lafayette, — 

" In behalf of my fellow citizens, I bid you a cordial 
wflcom,e, to the city of Hartford ; a place, many years 
since? honored by your presence ; and, though most of 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 143 

those individuals, whose exertions were then united with 
yours, to effect the freedom and independence of this 
favored country, have been removed, still, I trust, you 
will discover, in their descendants, the same spirit of hos- 
pitality and patriotism, for which they were distinguish- 
ed. 

The occasion, Sir, is peculiarly calculated, to recal to 
mind, those great and interestiug events, which have 
taken place, since your first efforts, in favor of an infant 
country, with feeble means, contending against superior 
and lawless power. 

Your martial deeds, your councils, and personal sacri- 
fices, have always been felt and acknowledged, by the 
people of the United States ; and esteemed, as signally 
instrumental, in effecting their independence, and securing 
those blessings which they now enjoy. 

The best reward, for all this, I doubt not, you will 
find, in beholding the country,, filled with flourishing 
towns and villages, inhabited by freemen, possessed of 
the knowledge of their native rights, and in a condition 
to protect and defend them ; exhibiting universal and 
unequivocal proofs of sincere affection and gratitude, to 
the illustrious benefactor of their country. 

The names of WASHINGTON and LAFAYETTE, 
with the present, and all future generations, will be asso- 
ciated with liberty, freedom, and happiness. 

While expressing these sentiments, permit me to add 
my sincere personal wishes, for your prosperity ; that 
your stay in our country may be long and happy ; and 
that the best of heaven's blessings may ever attend you/ 7 

To this address, the General made a verbal reply. 

The pupils of the public schools were arranged, in fine 
order, in the state house yard, to the number of about 
800, all in uniform dresses, and wearing badges with the 
motto of " ,/Yous vous aimons Lafayette."* 

He was here welcomed by the deaf and dumb pupils 
of the asylum, wearing badges, with this motto : " We 

* tk We love vou, Lafiiyetlc. 11 



144 tour of Lafayette. 

feel what our country expresses.*" While passing the 
children, they presented to the General a gold medal, 
on one side of which, was engraved, the motto of 
their badges, on the other, this inscription : — " Presented 
by the children of Hartford, Sept. 4//r, 1824." — The med- 
al was enclosed in a paper, containing the beautiful ad- 
dress, which will be found among the poetic selections, at 
the end of the volume. 

The state house was tastefully decorated for the oc- 
casion, by the ladies, with wreaths, festoons, &c. of ever- 
greens and flowers. The General was received in the 
senate chamber, and welcomed by Governor Wolcott, in 
the following address : — 

" Dear General, — I rejoice, in this opportunity, of re- 
newing to you my salutations, in this ancient capitol of 
Connecticut, where a virtuous and enlightened people 
have, during nearly two centuries, enjoyed republican in- 
stitutions, which Avere devised by themselves, and which 
have been administered by agents, annually designated by 
their voluntary suffrages. The principles, which you 
have advocated in council, and defended in the field, 
have been here triumphantly established, and, by the 
favor of heaven, we hope to transmit them, unimpaired, 
to our latest posterity. 

These principles are now diffused, on every side, from 
the ocean, to the high plains of the Missouri, and from 
the lakes, to the Bay of Mexico. Over this great re- 
gion, our sons, and our daughters, parents of future mill- 
ions, are rapidly extending science, religion, industry, and 
all those arts which perpetuate and embellish, powerful 
communities. Literature and commerce augment our 
strength and resources. We are united with elevated 
spirits, from every country, who have come here, to en- 
joy all that freedom of opinion, and of action, with which 
our own minds are imbued. You can proceed to no 
spot, where you will not be met by patriots, Avho have 
aided your exertions, in both hemispheres, or, by their 
admiring relatives, and, in every class, you will find an 
interesting proportion of Frenchmen, including numbers 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 145 

bt the descendants of those early emigrants, who imbibed 
the liberal and gallant spirit of your Fourth Henry. — 
Every class of citizens will instantly recognize in you, an 
illustrious benefactor of the United States, and of man- 
kind, and they will unite in spontaneous ^ benedictions 
with ardent invocations to the Supreme Being, that your 
life may be prosperous, with a happy transition to a glo- 
rious immortality." 

The following, is in substance, the reply of General La- 
fayette. 

„ Sir, — I feel very happy in viewing such resources of 
strength in New England, which resources should be 
cherished with union, as there is such a powerful oppo- 
sition abroad to your free principles. I am delighted, 
with the manifestation of feeling shown towards me ; — 
pleased with the moral habits and character of the peo- 
ple of the state, exhibiting in action a pure Republic. I 
am also highly gratified with the fine appearance of 
your military." 

After the introduction of many hundred ladies, and 
some gentlemen, the General was conducted to a plat- 
form beneath a beautiful civic arch, which was erected in 
front of the State house yard. On the arch, in large 
letters, were the words "WELCOME LAFAY- 
ETTE," and immediately above one column, " Mon- 
mouth," and the other* " Yorktown." Then passed in re- 
view before the General, nearly one hundred veteran of- 
ficers and soldiers of the war of the Revolution, march- 
ing after their own music, many of whom had served un- 
der him. He gave them a cordial greeting with the 
hand, and appeared much affected with the interview. — 
He then received the marching salute of the troops, be- 
ing about 1200 in number, under the command of General 
Nathan Johnson. 

At the foot of Morgan street, where the General en- 
tered the city, was a large arch, extending quite across 
the street, bearing the inscription : — 

" OUR ILLUSTRIOUS FELLOW CITIZEN, 

LAFAYETTE." 
19 



146 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



An occurrence of a peculiarly interesting character, 
transpired during his visit at Hartford. 

Two epaulettes and a sash, were shewn him, which 
he immediately recognized as having formerly belonged 
to him. He had given them, after the peace, to the 
late General Swift, of Cornwall, whose family had sent 
them to Hartford to be shewn to the General. The 
sash still has upon it the stains of blood, from a wound 
which General Lafayette received at the battle of Bran- 
dy wine ! 

Notwithstanding the rain, which fell in torrents until 
near noon, the concourse of people, collected on this oc- 
casion was much greater than was ever before seen in 
Hartford. 

Owing to the necessary delay at Stafford, the General 
was obliged to embark for New-York, much sooner than 
was anticipated. He went on board the Steam boat 
Oliver Ellsworth, about half past three o'clock, for that 
city. 

The boat arrived at Middletown upper houses, about 
six o'clock. On her first appearance, a salute of thir- 
teen guns was fired. 



RECEPTION AT MIDDLETOWN. 

At the landing place, he was received by a deputa- 
tion, composed of thirteen distinguished citizens of Mid- 
dletown with the first Marshall ; and escorted by a 
squadron of cavalry, commanded by Colonel Wilcox, pro- 
ceeded to the bridge which crosses the northern line of 
the city. He was here received by the corps of artillery, 
Riflemen and light infantry, under the command of Col. 
Walter Boothe, of the 10th Regiment of Infantry, who 
joined in escorting him to the large and elegant building 
occupied by Mr. Charles Francis, where preparations 
had been made for giving him an elegant dinner. The 
windows and tops of houses were thronged with females, 
who were constantly waving their handkerchiefs, as ex- 
pressive of their feelings at seeing him. On his arrival 
at the house, he was addressed by the Mayor, to 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 147 

which he made an appropriate reply. After which, the 
the Mayor presented him to the several members of the 
common council, gentlemen of the clergy, and the vete- 
rans of the Revolution. He was then persuaded to 
take a seat in the barouche, and was escorted through 
the principal streets in the city ; the houses were bril- 
liantly illuminated, and added much to the magnificence 
of the scene. On his arrival at the boat, he was cheer- 
ed by the multitude who had followed him. " At seven 
o'clock he embarked on the beautiful Connecticut, and 
though the evening was lowering, all the villages on the 
river were illuminated, bands of music were playing, and 
cannon firing. Mr. Ellsworth, one of the liberal propri- 
etors of the boat, had also provided a band which an- 
swered the salutes from the shore. 

It was a clouded passage for a few miles ; but the 
wind changed, and furling up the vapours round the 
beautiful hills on the Connecticut, showed the banks, 
lined to the very water's edge, with the inhabitants of 
every village, the occupants of every farm-house, the 
tenants of every hut, and the dwellers by every stream, 
that empties into the river. And, from many of these 
famed hills, cannon were fired, and drums beat, and 
shouts sent down the river, prolonged and varied, by ev- 
ery promontory, and every bay. The effect of the mu- 
sic from the boat, was such as a poet might wish to de- 
scribe. It was the first full band, that ever roused the 
echoes of these delightful shores ; and sweetly did they 
join in the symphony. The moon shone in full splendor ; 
there were illuminations along the whole course of the 
river, on both sides ; the air was mild, and the river un- 
ruffled by a breeze. Transparencies of " Welcome, La- 
fayette," were lighted up on every green headland, and 
salutes flashed from the woods, and roared every where 
around him. Had he, who sung the beauties of the vale 
of Cashmere, been present, at the scene, perhaps he 
would have witnessed, what he himself couid not have 
described. Of the 120 passengers, on board the Elk- 
worth, that night, none had witnessed, or conceived c! 
such a scene. 



148 TOUR OF LAI-'AYETTE., 

The fatigue of the preceding week, at last induced 
the General to retire, and, when the boat arrived at 
Saybrook, he was asleep : and, notwithstanding the dis- 
appointment of thousands, who were collected from the 
surrounding country, it was not thought advisable that he 
should be waked. It might have been difficult ; for 
even the music over his head, and the cannon that were 
discharged near the boat, did not disturb him. 

On the departure of the Ellsworth, for New York, 
the music ceased, and the passengers preserved the ut- 
most quiet. The passage was smooth, and, when the 
General came on deck in the morning, he expressed him- 
self greatly refreshed, and highly delighted with the 
boat. The band, (for it was the sabbath,) played a 
few pieces of sacred music ; otherwise, all was quiet 
and still until his arrival at New York. 

On landing in the city, he learned that the packet 
ship Stephania, (by which he intended to forward let- 
ters to France,) had sailed. On the General aad his 
son's expressing their disappointment, that they had 
not reached New York, in season to forward these des- 
patches, Mr. Ellsworth immediately directed his steam 
boat to proceed to the Hook, in search of the ship ; and 
fortunately overtook her at that place. 

About one o'clock, on Sunday, he landed from the 
boat at Fulton market wharf, where he was met, by the 
committee of the corporation, and conducted to his quar- 
ters, at the city hotel. 

On Monday, he dined with the highly respectable so- 
ciety of the Cincinnati of the state of New York, at 
Washington hall. 

At this dinner, General Lafayette, having been called 
upon for a toast, rose and addressed the society as fol- 
lows : — 

" With inexpressible delight, at our brotherly meet- 
ing, with most affectionate thanks to you all, dear, very 
dear friends and companions in arms, 1 propose the fol- 
lowing toast : 



TOUK OF LAFAYETTtf. 149 

The sacred principles, for which we have fought and 
bled ; liberty, equality, national independence ; may eve- 
ry nation of the earth, in adopting them, drink a bumper 
to the old continental army !" 

The dinner was served up with much elegance and 
taste. The dining room was beautifully decorated. Sev- 
eral ladies of the city volunteered to assist in the orna- 
ments, and displayed much taste on the occasion. 

Over the table, at the head of the room, a triumphal 
arch of evergreens, roses, and a variety of flowers, was 
erected, with a spread eagle in the centre, and a label 
issuing from his bill, on which was inscribed, " Sixth 
September" (the birth day of Lafayette,) and the year 
of his birth. From the centre, to the right side of the 
room, a label was extended, inscribed, " Brandywine" 
with the date of the battle ; aud, from the centre to the 
left, another label, inscribed, " Yorktown," with the date 
of the surrender at that place. 

Over the centre of the room, was a brilliant galaxy of 
twenty-two stars, from which pendants were extended 
to each corner of the room. — The sides were hung with 
the banners of the society, and a variety of elegant flags. 
At the foot of the tables, under a canopy of flowers, 
placed in elegant order, were cannons, stands of arms, 
drums, helmets, shields ; and in the centre, was displayed, 
in the evening, a beautiful transparent painting of the 
Goddess of liberty, pointing to a shield by her side, on 
which was inscribed, " Welcome Lafayette." 

On retiring from the dining hall, the entry and steps 
were thronged with people. As he passed along, one 
of the crowd threw a gold ring into his hat, exclaiming, 
that it was the only way he could manifest his respect 
for the illustrious fqend of our country. The person 
immediately mingled in the crowd, so that the General 
could not recognize him ; but he instantly slipped the 
ring on his finger. 

On Tuesday, the 7th inst. the General, in company 
with the members of the corporation, visited the alms 
house, fre^ schools, hospitals, academy of aits, and 



150 TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

Columbia college ; at the latter of which, he was wel- 
comed, by President Harris, in an appropriate address. 

On Wednesday the 8th, at the invitation of the offi- 
cers of the army, he proceeded, in the Chancellor Liv- 
ingston, down the bay, notwithstanding the heavy rain, 
and visited the different fortifications in the harbor. 

About five o'clock, they returned to the city, and in 
the evening, the whole company visited the theatre, 
the interior of which was decorated for the occasion, 
and the front illuminated, had exhibited a transparency, 
representing the goddess of liberty, with an inscription, 
" Lafayette, the friend of freedom ; the benefactor of 
mankind." 

On Thursday, at twelve o'clock, the General attend- 
ed the musical performances of the Choral Society at 
St. Paul's. On his entering the church, the choir struck 
up the fine air of " See the conquering Hero comes ;" giv- 
en, as it was, with the whole strength, (instrumental, as 
well as vocal,) of the company, the effect was grand 
beyond description. 

In the afternoon, the General reviewed the whole of 
the fire companies in the city, who paraded in the Park. 
The number of men, composing these companies, is about 
1200. During the ceremony, the engines were drawn 
together, in a circle, and, at the same time, directed 
their discharges to a point in the air, thus forming a most 
beautiful column of water. 

On Friday, the 10th, in pursuance of an invitation 
from the trustees of the free schools of New York, the 
General visited some of the schools, and afterwards re- 
viewed the whole, collected, for that purpose, in the 
park. It was judged, 40,000 persons were assembled 
in the park, and adjoining streets. 

When he entered the female department, he was 
welcomed, by several hundred little girls, chanting the 
following stanzas : 

Welcome, Hero, to the west. 
To the land thy sword hath blest ! 
To the country of 'he/Vee, 
Welcome, friend of liberty .' 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. !5l 

Grateful millions guard thy fame, 
Age and youth revere thy name ; 
Beauty twines her wreath for thee, 
Glorious son of liberty ! 

Years shall speak a nation's love, 
WheresoeVr thy foot steps move ; 
By the choral piean met, 
Welcome, welcome, Lafayette ! 

He expressed himself highly gratified with the anima- 
ting spectacle before him, and spoke warmly in favor of 
all institutions and combinations of benevolent individuals 
for the purpose of instructing the poorer classes of 
the community ; and as the strongest evidence in their 
favor, he alluded to the opposition to this work of phi- 
lanthropy, which exists in Europe. 

At the male school, were present, nearly four hun- 
dred and fifty scholars, all well clad, very attentive, and 
under excellent discipline. This department of the 
free school embraces from 700 to 800 scholars. When 
the General had been seated, a little boy, apparently 
from eight to ten years of age, mounted the forum, and, 
with much distinctness of enunciation, and propriety of 
gesture, pronounced a very appropriate address, which 
ended thus: 

" May that sun, which has shone with such splendor, 
and whose rays have contributed so much to the happi- 
ness of mankind, and, in particular, to this western 
hemisphere ; I say, may that sun set, (when Providence 
shall ordain,) without a speck to obscure it ; and, it hav- 
ing acted its part, like the natural sun of this great sys- 
tem, which imparts light and warmth, so shall Lafayette 
have imparted a light and a warmth, which shall thrill 
through the hearts of beings yet unborn." 

At one o'clock, the General visited the African free 
school, under the tuition of Mr. Andrews, and direction 
of the trustees of the Manumission society. 

He next visited the hospital, and then returned to his 
lodgings, and enjoyed a few moments repose, until it was 
ascertained, that the children of all the schools were 
paraded in the park, where, attended by the committee. 



152 TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

and trustees, as before, he returned, and viewed the 
whole of this most interesting groupe. The children 
were paraded in double lines, facing inwards, and ex- 
tending entirely round the outward bounds of the park. 
Through these lines, the General passed, receiving, at 
every step, the warmest evidences of attachment, not 
only from the little scholars, to the number of 5000, but 
from at least, 5000 people more, who had assembled on 
the occasion. On arriving at the city hall, the party 
halted upon the steps, and the scholars marched round 
before their honored guest, and retired with their in- 
structors. 

On his return from this visit, he received military 
honors from the ninth regiment of the New York artille- 
ry, and was presented by Col. Muir, in behalf of the offi- 
cers, with a superb gold mounted sword, Avho made the 
following address. 

" General, — The officers of the ninth regiment of 
New York state artillery, anxious to manifest, in com- 
mon with their fellow citizens, their esteem for you, as 
the champion of their country ; the associate and friend 
of Washington, have deputed me to present to you this 
sword, the belt and mountings being exclusively of the 
manufacture of this city. 

It is unnecessary to recount the many signal services 
that you have rendered to our country. It does not 
comport with the character of soldiers, to multiply words 
or professions ; it is sufficient for them to know that you 
were always found in the front rank of those who shed 
their blood, and expended their treasure, in the glorious 
cause of liberty, during the eventful time, that k ' tried 
men's souls." These services are not forgotten, by a 
grateful posterity ; they are engraven on the hearts of 
a free people, by whom you will ever be remembered, 
as the friend of liberty, the benefactor of mankind. 

May your declining years be as happy as your 
youthful and more mature ones have been useful and glo- 
rious ! Your name will ever be associated with liberty, 
freedom, and benevolence ! 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 153 

Permit me, General, to add my personal wishes for 
your health and happiness, and to assure you that 1 shall 
consider the circu : istance of my having been chosen the 
organ of the officers of the regiment I have the honor 
to command, to present you with this sword, as orie of the 
most agreeable and interesting of my life.*' 

THE GENERAL'S ANSWER. 

" With the highest pleasure and gratitude, I receive 
this most valuable present from a distinguished corps of 
citizen soldiers ; every one of whom knows that swords 
have been given to man to defend liberty where it ex- 
ists, to conquer where it has been invaded by crowned 
and acknowledged usurpers. 

Accept, dear Colonel, and let all the officers and sol- 
diers of your corps accept my most affectionate thanks." 

The following is a copy of the inscription on the 
sword : 

" Presented to Major-General Lafayette, by Colonel 
Alexander M. Muir, in behalf of the officers of the ninth 
regiment N. Y. S. Artillery, 10th Sept. 1824, as a small 
token of the esteem in which he is held by them for his 
private worth, and distinguished service during the war 
which gave independence to the United States." 

The belt is of exquisite workmanship, richly embroid- 
ered with gold. On it are inscribed, in silver, the fig- 
ures '76, and letters L. F. thus—" L. '76. F." The 
plate of the belt is large, and sufficiently elegant to cor- 
respond. The ground work of the plate is occupied 
with appropriate military devices, and around these are 
the four following inscriptions : 

" The Marquis de Lafayette, 
Born in France, 6th Sept. 1757. 

Joined the American army of the Revolution as a vol- 
unteer, and was wounded at the battle of Brandywine. 
11th Sept. 1777. 

Commanded the army in Virginia during the campaign 
of 1781, and was at the attack at Yorktown, 19th Oct. 
1781. 



20 



154 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

Revisits the U. S. of America on an invitation from' 
Congress, and landed at New- York, August 16th, 1824." 
In the evening he visited Vauxhall gardens, to which 
place he was escorted by the Lafayette guards. 

On Saturday, he dined with the "French Residents, at 
Washington hall, which was ornamented with arches 
composed of festoons of ilowers, thrown across the hall, 
representing the four quarters of the globe, and rest- 
ing on four marble columns placed in each corner. In 
the centre was a brilliant revolving sun. At each end 
of the table, were large transparent paintings, represent- 
ing the Genius of Liberty presenting to the Goddess 
Cybele, Washington and Lafayette, with Minerva presid- 
ing over the scene. In one hand, the Goddess of liberty 
held a shield with the following inscription. — Honneur a 
mon Soulier. (Honor to my supporter.) Down the mid- 
dle of the table, for seventy feet in length, appeared a 
miniature representation of the New York canal, mean- 
dering through green pastures, groves of trees, over 
ledges of rocks, and under bridges, and bearing on its bo- 
som, miniature canal boats, flocks of water fowl, &c. — 
Little fish were seen swimming in various directions. 

This representation of one of the great sources of 
wealth, and prosperity, and enterprise of the state, was 
much admired for its taste and neatness, and it is said was 
got up under the direction of a person formerly in the 
employment of the King of Naples. 

During Saturday, General Lafayette and his son call- 
ed at the house of Mr. John Hurley, the patriotic manu- 
facturer who sent out to him before he left France, the 
elegant Washington hat, which he has worn since his 
landing in this country, and who also refused to take pay for 
one furnished to George Washington La ayette, alleging 
that all the hats he could supply the family with were paid for 
forty years ago. This visit evinces in the strongest light, 
the republican feelings and the aliubility and kindness of 
the great friend of liberty. He spent nearly an hour at 
Mr. Hurley's, and manifested a lively interest for his fam- 
ily, taking each by the hand, and conversing with them 



k w *s of lafatette. 155 

IP the most affectionate manner. His visit was without 
announcement, and therefore the more grateiul to the 
feelings of all. While he remained, many of the neigh* 
hours and friends of Mr. Hurley were introduced, and 
cordially received by the General. 

On Sunday, he attended Divine service at Trinity 
church. 

FETE AT CASTLE GARDEN. 

"After several postponements on account of the weath- 
er, the splendid fete given to General Lafayette took 
place on Tuesday evening, 14th, the delay having given 
time for extensive preparations. 

This fete is represented as the most magnificent dis- 
play ever witnessed in America ; and is said to have made 
a reality of all we read of in the Persian Tales, and 
Arabian Nights : which dazzled the eye, and bewilder- 
ed the imagination. 

As early as six o'clock in the afternoon, carriages were 
,in motion, every one being aware of the crowd which 
would ensue, and throng the avenue to the castle. By 
the judicious arrangements of the managers, every facili- 
ty was afforded to the company of arriving with expedi- 
tion and safety. Fortius purpose, the enclosure of the 
battery was thrown open opposite Greenwich and Bridge 
streets, and a semi-circular pathway for carriages, lead- 
ing by the avenue to the castle, was constructed. By 
the side of this, was a walk for persons on foot, secured 
by barriers from the carriages on the one hand, and the 
multitude of spectators on the other. Three steam 
boats, tastefully adorned with flags and brilliantly illumin- 
ated, were also constantly plying from different points in 
the city, landing their crowds of passengers at covered 
ways, leading into the Castle. Owing to this easi- 
ness of access both by land and water, and the perfect or- 
der which was preserved in the approach, throngs were 
constantly pouring in from several directions ; and before 
10 o'clock, the whole company to the number of about 
six thousand had assembled. 

It is estimated that the multitude within the enclosure 
©f the battery could not have been less than iU'ty thou. 



J 56 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

sand, filling to overflowing the whole of that spacious an4 
beautiful area. 

At about 8 o'clock, the line of carriages approaching 
with company, extended up Greenwich street, as far as 
Dey street, the distance of about half a mile. 

The exterior view of the castle and the surrounding 
scenery, was grand and picturesque in the extreme. — r 
Several houses in the vicinity were brilliantly illumina- 
ted, and in every direction lights were seen dancing upr 
on the blue waters of the bay. At the entrance of the 
bridge, extending from the battery to the castle, a dis- 
tance of several hundred feet, was a splendid pyramid of 
lamps, not less than fifty feet in height, surmounted by a 
large star of the most dazzling lustre, intended as embla- 
matic of the glory of Lafayette. The bridge itself was 
carpeted and covered by an awning, the lofty arch light- 
ed with hundreds of lamps, and adorned with wreaths, 
festoons, and copses of evergreen. At its extremity, on 
either hand, were antichambers and convenient rooms, 
where the ladies prepared for their entrance. 

It was a scene of enchantment, which the mind could 
not bring itself to believe was a reality, and which left the 
beholder mute, bewildered, and gazing in astonishment 
Let the reader imagine an immense amphitheatre, not 
less than two hundred feet in diameter, or six hundred 
feet in circumference, with galleries rising one above 
another, to the extreme part of the battlement, the as- 
cent to which was by lofty flights of steps — let him im- 
agine a canopy extending over the whole area, the apex 
of which was seventy feet from the floor, woven of fes- 
toons of flags of all colours and descriptions, entirely con- 
cealing the triple folds of canvass, forming the awning : 
let him imagine this spacious arch supported by a mas- 
sive column, in the centre, entwined with spiral wreaths 
of laurel, half concealing the names of Revolutionary 
patriots, and arms extending from this central pillar, hung 
with thirteen chandeliers, blazing with almost painful lus- 
tre ; let him imagine around the galleries, and rising to 
support the canopy, thirteen other transparent pillars of 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 157 

Zarge dimensions, glowing with every hue, their bases 
vuinounded with the arms of the several states, their 
capitals with those of the nation, and each of them or- 
namented with a canopy :' let him imagine the whole 
roof, and every part of the spacious area, hung with 
chandeliers and lamps, giving an indescribable brilliancy 
to the decorations of the room : let him imagine six 
thousand ladies and gentlemen, in full dresses, dancing, 
promenading, and moving in all directions, to the music 
of two numerous orchestras in the gallery, over the en- 
trance : let him, if he can, combine, into one view, 
these splendid images, and he may form some idea of 
the coup d'ceil of this spectacle. It is believed that the 
most celebrated amphitheatres of antiquity never present- 
ed a more grand and imposing view. It is certain, that 
nothing in this country, or in modern Europe, has surpas- 
sed, or even equalled it. Persons who were present at 
the coronation of the emperor Napoleon, and of George 
IV. say, that neither of those pageants could be compar- 
ed with this in point of grandeur and effect. 

All the ornaments of the castle were allegoricah The 
central pillar was designed to represent the centre of 
the Union ; and the thirteen transparent pillars, as well 
as the thirteen chandeliers, were emblematic of the 
thirteen original states, which united in the declaration 
of independence, and with which the Revolutionary ser- 
vices of General Lafayette are associated. The names 
of these states were hung in festoons, at the summits of 
the respective columns. 

Over the entrance, was a bust of Washington, design- 
ed to represent him as the presiding spirit of the fete, 
given to his illustrious friend, and associate in arms. On 
one end of the gallery in front, was the word Monmouth, 
and on the other, Yqrktown, in ornamental capitals ; in 
the centre, a large allegorical representation of the 
Genius of America, attended by the eagle, and bearing 
the inscription, " gratitude to the faithful patriot." 

Opposite the entrance, and at the foot of the principal 
3tair-way, leading to the gallery, was a splendid pavilion, 



158 TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 

lined with blue silk, and superbly ornamented with suita. 
ble decorations, among which was a bust of Hamilton, 
Wreathed with laurel, and several portraits of revolution- 
ary heroes and statesmen. The interior was richly 
carpeted, and furnished with sofas, for the accommoda- 
tion of the General and his suite. — In front of the pa- 
vilion, a table was spread, loaded with refreshments, 
among which was the mammoth cake, presented by Mr. 
Ferry. This cake was elegantly decorated, presenting, 
at equal distances around the pyramid, thirteen likeness- 
es of the General, with the words " Welcome, Lafay- 
ette," around each. It was also ornamented with col- 
umns, stars, and roses, and displayed national standards 
on the top. The inscriptions were formed of sugar 
plumbs, inserted in the cake. 

The company was numerous and brilliant, beyond 
what has probably been ever witnessed in this country ; 
embracing a large proportion of our most respectable 
citizens, with their families, and a great number of 
strimgers, from various parts of the United States, Cana- 
da, and Europe. 

At about ten o'clock, General Lafayette entered the 
Castle, accompanied by his suite, and escorted by the 
committee of arrangements. A line of beauty, taste, 
and fashion, eagerly pressing to salute him, as he passed.,, 
extending from the entrance to his pavilion, across the 
hall. — He walked through the gallery, and the area be- 
low, and was introduced to a great number of ladies and 
gentlemen. On taking his seat in the pavilion, the alle- 
gorical painting, in the front gallery, arose, and disclosed 
a fine transparency of his seat at La Grange, in France. 
Beneath the picture, were the words " his home," in 
capitals. The effect was instantaneous, and produced 
bursts of applause. 

Throughout the whole evening, the company amused 
themselves with cotillions, eighty sets being frequently 
on the floor at the same time, the dances being called, 
and closed by the bugle. In the intervals, the other or- 
chestra played a variety of marches, and national air* 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 159 

to the music of which, the party promenaded through 
the spacious area, which, at no one time, was crowded, 
notwithstanding the immense concourse. The evening 
was one of the serenest and most delightful during this 
season ; the cloudless moon, pouring her silver beams 
upon the waters, and the softened air, from the harbor, 
breathing through the numerous openings of the castle. 
Owing to these favourable circumstances, not the slight- 
est inconvenience was experienced from so large an as- 
semblage, the whispering of the breeze superseding the 
necessity of the fan. 

At two o'clock in the morning, the General took leave 
of the company, and embarked on board the James 
Kent, in waiting for him, at the castle, being beautifully 
illuminated, and adorned with banners. As she wheeled 
from her moorings, and commenced her march up the 
Hudson, burning, like an enchanted castle, upon the wa- 
ters, the whole company rushed to the battlement, and 
cheered her departure, following, with the warmest ^ 
benedictions, their illustrious visitant, on his way to 
West Point, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie, and Albany. 
Large delegations from these places, accompanied him. 

The General expressed himself delighted with this 
gala ; which, owing to the advantages of the place, and 
other circumstances, has not, and cannot be equalled by 
any fete that will be given him in this country. Perhaps 
there is not a place in the world, in all respects so com- 
modious, and eligible for such a festival. 

Soon after the General left the castle, the company 
retired, without any accident to mar the festivities of the 
fete, and delighted with the enjoyments of an evening, 
which will long be remembered, and form an era in the 
legends of fashionable amusements."* 

London boasts of its Vauxhall ; Paris, of its Champ d? 
Elysses ; Naples, of San Carlos ; but foreign gentlemen 
present, admitted, that they had never seen any thing to 
equal this fete, in the several countries to which they re- 
spectively belong. 

* New York Statesman. 



160 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

One circumstance, deserving notice, has been omitted, 
on his second visit to the city of New York. Previous 
to his excursion up the north river, the General pur- 
chased the portable writing desk, which obtained the 
premium at the last exhibition of the mechanic and sci- 
entific institution of that city, and presented it to ( !apt. 
Allyn, of the ship Cadmus, whose polite attentions to the 
General, during his passage from Havre, secured his es- 
teem and friendship. — The desk is made of rich mahoga- 
ny, lined on the top and front, with rose wood, and in- 
dented with polished brass scollops, inlaid with admirable 
exactness. A highly polished brass plate, on the top, 
bears the following inscription : — 

" General Lafayette, 
to his excellent friend, 
Captain Allyn. 
August 15th, 1824." 
This desk was manufactured by Mr. N. Prentiss : the 
General also presented the chief mate, Mr. Daniel Chad- 
wick, a very beautiful and rich case of instruments, suita- 
ble for his profession. 

The steam boat made good progress, for a considera- 
ble distance ; but the fog coming up so thick as to im- 
pede her progress with safety, she unfortunately ground- 
ed, at a place called the oyster bank, which detained 
them several hours. About 12 o'clock, her approach 
to that point, was announced ; and the lofty bank of the 
Hudson, was lined with spectators ; and the cadets were 
in line, as if they had been summoned from their bar- 
racks, by the wand of a magician. The General was 
here received by Colonel Thayer, the commander of the 
post, accompanied by Major Generals Brown and Scott, 
with their respective suites, together with the officers 
and professors upon the station, under a salute of twen- 
ty-one guns, from a detachment of artillery, posted upon 
the bluff, directly north of the old barracks. A landeau 
was in readiness to receive the General, a9 he stepped 
on shore, in which he ascended the hill, to the plain, fol- 
lowed by a long procession. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. lGl 

He was received on the plain, by the corps oi' cadets, 
whom he reviewed; and afterwards received the march- 
ing salute, in front of the marquee erected for him, and 
.witnessed several evolutions, which evinced the perfec- 
tion of discipline. From the parade gr«Und, the General 
repaired, for a i'cw moments, to the quarters of Gene- 
rals Brown and Scott, at Mr. Cozzcns', while the ladies 
assembled in a spacious room, adjoining the library, and 
partook of refreshments prepared for the occasion. 
This library is very extensive, and the room is decorated 
with portraits of Washington, Jefferson, Mr. Calhoun, 
and General Williams, who were originally at the head 
of this institution. At half past two, the General was 
conducted, by Colonel Thayer, to the splendid library of 
the institution, where the corps of cadets were individu- 
ally presented to him, by Major Worth ; the gentlemen 
upon the point, who had not previously been introduced, 
were then presented, after which the ladies were sev- 
erally introduced, 

From the library, the General repaired to the mess 
room of the Cadets, elegantly fitted up for the occasion, 
and sat down to an elegant dinner with about 400 per- 
sons. It would be needless to recount the numerous 
and elegant decorations that were displayed in the room. 
Festoons of evergreen were suspended from pillar to 
pillar, in every direction through the spacious hall. Back 
of the President's chair hung the star spangled banner. 
Over the chair was a large spread, and elegantly wrought 
eagle, with the words" September 6, 1757," issuing 
from the streamer in his beak, and " York Town" grasp- 
ed in his claws. A crown of laurel, interwoven with 
roses, was suspended over the General's head. 

At six of the clock, the General embarked on board 
the boat for New burgh. 

He arrived at Newburgh, after dark, and was escorted 
by a corps of infantry, who were in waiting on the 
wharf, to the Orange hotel, where he was received by 
the corporation of the village, and welcomed in an ap- 
propriate address by their president, on behalf of his 
21 



162 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE, 

fellow citizens. Alter the General had made a suitable 
reply to the address, he was escorted, in an open 
carriage, through the principal streets of the city, over 
which were thrown numerous arches, beautifully em- 
bellished, and bearing patriotic inscriptions. These 
were so richly and beautifully ornamented with festoons 
and flowers, that they would have answered well for 
decorations to the portals of the temple of Flora herself. 
The inscription here was, 4k Welcome our hero, Lafay- 
ette." 

At Poughkeepsie, the General was received with the 
same evidences of grateful and patriotic feeling. The 
steam boat arrived at the landing before day light. 

At sun rise, all hands were piped on deck, and a 
more imposing spectacle has rarely been presented. The 
high bluffs below the landing place, were covered with 
troops in uniform, and thousands of citizens were crowd- 
ing the wharves, and showing themselves in large 
groupes, from the neighboring heights, and windows of 
the nouses, standing within view of the river. All ages 
and sexes seemed to press anxiously forward, to show 
their gratitude to their welcome visiter. 

The troops on duty at this place, consisted of the uni- 
form companies, belonging to the several regiments of 
the 7th division of infantry, under Major Brush. Their 
appearance was soldier-like, and their discipline excel- 
lent. 

A barouche was drawn up for the General, and 
another for his sou, each drawn by four v hite horses. 
He was then escorted through several of the principal 
streets, to the front of Mr. Forbes' hotel. 

Immediately after breakfast, and with a praiseworthy 
promptness, the escort was formed, and the General 
was attended to the boat -With every possible mark of 
respect. Numerous agreeable attentions were paid to 
the General, on his passage up the river, by the occu- 
pants of the several country seats which adorn its banks. 
While passing the scene of Arnold's treason, General 
Lafayette related, very minutely, all the circumstances 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 163 

connected with that affair. Washington, with many 
other officers, arrived at Arnold's house, on the day of 
his escape. Intelligence of the arrest of Andre, and the 
treason of Arnold, was communicated to Washington a 
few minutes before dinner. He mentioned it to Lafay- 
ette, Hamilton, and Knox only. At dinner, it was ob- 
served, that General and Mrs. Arnold were both absent. 
After dinner, the intelligence spread rapidly, and a coun- 
cil of the general officers was called, at which, General 
Knox, the junior brgadier, was first asked by Washing- 
ton, what ought to be done. General Knox, with great 
gravity, replied, " that something should be done to pre- 
vent the desertion of major generals." 

A few miles below Newburgh, the General recognised 
his quarters, in the winter of 1781, and called Major 
Cooper, who was there with him, to talk over the inci- 
dents of that winter. " Do you recollect," said he to 
Major Cooper, " when Major *****, w ho used to slide 
down that hill, with the girls, came near being drowned, 
by falling through the ice ? He was an eccentric, but 
an excellent man." 

The boat arrived at Clermont, about four in the after- 
noon, and anchored off the beautiful mansion of R. L. 
Livingston, Esq. To those who have travelled upon 
the Hudson, nothing will be necessary in praise of this 
elegant situation. To those who have not, it may be 
proper to say, it is one of the most delightful spots in na- 
ture. — This seat was formerly the late Chancellor Liv- 
ingston's. 

But while the rocks and glens, and even trees to then* 
topmast branches, presented this animated spectacle, the 
General, his suite, and friends, were still more surprised 
by the appearance upon the lawn, of this romantic and 
secluded place, of a regiment of well-disciplined troops, 
in uniform, drawn up to receive him. 

The shipping anchored in the stream, was decorated 
with appropriate flags ; and, on landing, a salute was 
fired from the vessels, and returned from the shore. 
The General was then conducted by Generals Lewis 



164 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



and Fish to the seat of Mr. Livingston, where he wad 
received by that gentleman with every mark of courtesy 
and respect. 

After the friends of Mr. Livingston, assembled on the 
occasion, had been presented, the General reviewed the 
troops upon the lawn, by whom he was honored with a 
feu de joie. At this moment, a long procession of the 
ancient and honorable fraternity of freemasons, consist- 
ing of a chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and the mem- 
bers of " Widow's Son Lodge," of Redhook, emerged 
from a grove, and, on being presented to the General, an 
address was delivered by Palmer Cooke, Esq. W. M. of 
the abovementioned lodge. 

After a brief and pertinent reply, the General accept- 
ed of an invitation to visit the seat of Edward P. Living- 
ston, Esq. which is situated but a short distance to the 
north, upon the same elevated and beautiful plain. An 
excellent collation, together with refreshments of every 
suitable kind, were served up. And while the compa- 
ny were partaking of these, the steam boat Richmond, 
Captain Wiswall, came down, and anchored alongside of 
the James Kent ; having on board Major General Jacob 
Rutsen Van Rensselaer, and suite, Brigadier General 
Fleming and suite, the mayor of Hudson, (Rufus Reed, 
Esq.) Dr. Tallman, late mayor, and Colonel Strong, as 
delegates from the city of Hudson, together with the 
Hudson band, and two elegant uniform companies, under 
the command of Colonel Edmonds. This formidable ad- 
dition to the company already on the ground, repaired 
immediately to the seat of Mr. E. P. Livingston, from 
whence, after refreshments were served out to them by 
Mr. L. and Com. Wiswall, in person, General Lafayette 
was escorted back to the seat of his liberal entertainer. 
As night came on, the troops and crowd from the coun- 
try dispersed, and the Hudson troops were taken on 
board of the steam boat James Kent, where refresh- 
ments were ordered, and the forward deck and cabin 
assigned to them for the night. In the evening, the 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 16a 

whole of Mr. L's. splendid suite of apartments was 
brilliantly lighted up, and an elegant ball was given in 
honor of the General's company. 

During the evening, a sumptuous supper was served 
up in a style of magnificence rarely, it ever, equalled in 
this country. The room selected for this part of the 
Jete, was an extensive greenhouse or orangery, and the 
effect was indescribably fine. The tables had been 
made, and fitted for this occasion, and were spread be- 
neath a large grove of orange and lemon trees, with 
bending branches of fruit, and many other species of 
exotic shrubs and plants. Flora also, had profusely 
scattered her blossoms ; and the whole scene seemed to 
partake of enchantment. The beholder stood gazing as 
if bound by the wizzard spell of the magician. The 
night was dark and rainy ; but this contributed to the 
general effect of the fete, inasmuch as the darkness 
heightened the effect of the thousand lamps, by which 
the surrounding groves were illuminated. There was 
also a fine exhibition of fire works, which had been pre- 

1:>ared, and brought from New York, for the occasion. It 
laving been found inconvenient to provide suppers for 
so many on board of the boat, the whole detachment of 
troops were invited by Mr. L. to supper in the green 
house, which invitation was accepted. At ten o'clock, 
General Lafayette retired from this scene of gaiety 
and beauty, and at two, the hall was closed, and the 
company separated, not only highly gratified with the 
entertainment, but with the manner in which it was got 
up, and imparted to his guests, by Mr. L. whose style 
of living closely approximates that of the real English 
gentleman, and whose wealth is equalled by his kindness 
and liberality. 

RECEPTION^AT CATSKILL. 

On his arrival at this place, the long wharf, which 
projects half a mile into the river, was occupied by two 
battalions of troops in uniform. The highlands, which 
nearlv exclude the whole village from a view of the 



166 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

river, were covered with people, and on the arrival of 
the James Kent at the dock, a salute of thirteen guns 
was fired from the artillery on one of the heights. The 
engagements of the General rendered it necessary for 
him to be in Albany on that day, to dinner ; in conse- 
quence of which, his stay at Catskill was rendered more 
limited than had been anticipated. — He was drawn 
through the principal street, in an open carnage, by four 
white horses. The crowd assembled, amounted to be- 
tween three and four thousand people. Civic arches 
were erected, dressed with appropriate decorations of 
evergreens and flowers, bearing the inscription of 
" Welcome Lafayette." The windows were crowded 
with the ladies, who waved their scarfs and handker- 
chiefs, while the populace were making the hills echo, 
and the valleys resound, with their reiterated cheers. 
Among the groupe assembled in front of Mr. Cro well's 
house, were many, whose silver locks, furrowed fea- 
tures, and tottering steps, bespoke age and hard ser- 
vices. 

But time, which will not slacken his pace, nor even 
linger amid scenes like this, rendered it necessary that 
the General should be on board. He left amid the 
hearty cheers of the inhabitants ; the ladies once more 
waved their handkerchiefs ; while many of the 
young men, in the retinue of the General, who felt 
more interested in viewing the young and fair damsels, 
who presented themselves at the window, than the aged 
veterans ; could but wonder how the town came by so 
much beauty and elegance. 

The children of the village of Oatskill have remitted 
the sum of '$150 to the treasurer of the American Bi- 
ble Society, to constitute Lafayette a life director of the 
society, 

RECEPTIONIST HUDSON. 

On the arrival of the boat at Hudson, just before 
twelve, he was invited to partake of a public dinner at 
that place, but time would not permit. This was some- 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 167 

what of a disappointment to the inhabitants, as splendid 
preparations had been made for his reception. 

He was conducted to an elegant barouche, drawn by 
four beautiful black horses, attended by four greoms, 
in a special livery. 

At this place, as well as those he had already passed 
through, were erected arches elegantly decorated, over 
one of which stood a collossal figure, representing the 
Genius of Liberty, grasping in her hand, the American 
standard, which, from its unusual size, had an imposing 
effect. Appropriate inscriptions were borne upon each 
of the arches. The procession moved to the court 
house, which was superbly decorated, and all the seats 
without the bar, were filled by the " fair daughteis 
of Columbia." 

At the entrance of the bar, on either side, stood a 
beautiful Corinthian pillar, with caps and cornices of the 
composite order of architecture, elegantly wrought and 
ornamented with leaves and gold. On the top of each 
of these pillars was placed a globe, and the whole were 
united at the top, by a chain of flowers of every hue, fes- 
tooned with laurel and roses. The General was con- 
ducted to the rich and beautiful portal, where his hon- 
or the mayor delivered an address. 

Lafayette briefly replied to the address ; after which, 
the members of the common council were severallv 
presented to him. A most interesting and affecting 
spectacle was then presented. Sixty-eight veterans of 
the revolution, who had collected from the different 
parts of the county, formed a part of the procession, and 
were next presented ; and it so happened, that several 
of them were officers, and many of them soldiers, who 
had served with Lafayette. Notwithstanding they 
were admonished that the greatest haste was necessary, 
yet every one had something to say ; and when they 
grasped his friendly hand, each seemed reluctant to re-, 
lease it. One of them came up, with a sword in his 
hand, which, as he passed, he remarked, was " given to 
him by the marquis," at such a place, " in Rhode Isl- 



"l68 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

and." Another, with a tear, glistening in his eye, as 
he shook the hand of the General, observed, ' ; You, 
sir, gave me the first guinea I ever had in my life ; I 
shall never forget that." The officers of the militia 
were next presented, and, after them, the ladies. 

So earnest were the solicitations of the people that, 
contrary to the intentions of the General, he was con- 
strained to alight for a few moments at the hotel, where 
preparations had been made for dinner. The room 
was elegantly decorated ; and over the chair designed 
for the seat of Lafayette, was a wreath, in the centre of 
which was an inscription in poetry. Altera short delay 
the General returned to the boat ; and on leaving the 
dock three pheers were given, and returned from the 
boat. In passing up the river, the docks and the vil- 
lages of Coxsackie, New Baltimore and Coeymans, vvere 
crowded with people, who gave assurance of their af- 
fection and respect, by their repeated cheers. 



RECEPTION AT ALBANY. 

General Lafayette visited Albany on Friday the 17th 
of September. 

His welcome was announced by a salute of artillery 
and the merry peal of bells which continued ringing 
nearly two hours. On landing, he entered a barouche 
drawn by four white horses, accompained by Major 
General Solomon Van Rensselaer, marshal of the day. 

He was then escorted by a company of cavalry and 
gentlemen on horseback to Greenbush, where he was 
received and entertained by the citizens of that place, 
who had erected a spacious tent for the occasion. Near 
the tent was also erected a civic arch, elegantly decora- 
ted with evergreens and flowers, and upon which were 
appropriate inscriptions. On one side, Freedom's Volun- 
teer, LAFAYETTE— One Republic not ungrateful: On 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 169 

the other, Yorktown, 19th October. 1-781 — " The Boy 
did escape."* 

After spending a short time with the citizens of Green- 
bush, he proceeded to the Ferry, and immediately cross- 
ed the North river to the Albany side, where were as- 
sembled to welcome him, thousands of well dressed cit- 
izens, whose voices made the welkin ring as he ap- 
proached the landing. On his reaching the shore, an 
excellent band of twenty-one respectable young men, 
and superior we think to any private band we have 
ever heard, commenced playing " Lafayette's welcome to 
America," anew tune, composed by Mr. Meline, leader 
of the band. 

Among the inscriptions on the arch, decorated with 
various flowers and evergreens, and hung with variega- 
ted lamps were the following. 

"THE HERO WELCOME/* 
"We remember thy deeds. 
We revere thy Worth. 
We love thy virtues. 
We hail thee welcome." 

At the foot of State street, was erected a splendid 
civic temple, in the centre of which was a bust of 
Alexander Hamilton. The temple was beautifully dec- 
orated with roses and evergreens, and brilliantly illu- 
minated ; on the top oflR was perched a live Eagle, 
which, as the General passed, pointed its beak towards 
him and flapped its wings, as though it would say, Wel- 
come Lafayette ! The appearance of the temple was 
very grand, and the inscriptions were numerous and ap- 
propriate, none of them however, possessed the charm of 
novelty. 

On arriving at the Capitol, which was tastefully orna- 
mented, the Mayor, Judge Spencer, delivered an appro- 

*Al!usir>n is here made to a sentence, written in a letter by Cornwallis,(which 
was intercepted) in the Virginia Campaign of 1781 — where he observes in 
relation to Lafayette — " The boy cannot escape me. 1 " Yet this heroic youth 
foiled him in all his movements, and drove him to his covert in Yorktown. 
where the boasting- man-General was entrapped, with his whole arrov. 

22 



170 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

priate address, and bade a cordial welcome to the dis- 
tinguished guest, in behalf of his fellow citizens, and re- 
ceived a handsome reply. 

A splendid ball was given in the assembly chamber, 
which was fitted up for the occasion, with much taste 
and elegance, being hung with festoons of evergreens and 
flowers, surrounding the names of revolutionary patriots 
and soldiers. 

On Saturday the General visited Troy ; and after par- 
taking of a collation with the members of the chapter 
of Royal Arch Masons of that city, and other gentlemen, 
he proceeded to the Troy female Seminary. 

The ladies were drawn up in ranks on each side of an 
arbor ; and as the General entered it, he was met by a 
committee of nine ladies, with Mrs. Albert Pawling at 
their head. The General was introduced to the com- 
mittee by Col. Lane, and was then addressed in the fol- 
lowing very neat and appropriate manner by Mrs. Paw- 
ling : 

"Respected and Dear Sir, 

The ladies of Troy rejoice in the opportunity of 
meeting the illustrious friend and early benefactor of 
their much loved country — and through me, tender to 
you sir, their most affectionate respects and cordial wel- 
come to this now peaceful and happy land. 

The ladies are also proud in heingable to present, in 
the pupils of the adjoining sem" ry, a living testimony of 
the blessings conferred by that independence, which you, 
sir, so essentially contributed to establish, and in which 
our sex enjoy a prominent share. 

Permit me, sir, the pleasure of introducing you to the 
principal and assistant teachers of " The Troy Female 
Seminary," — an institution Avhich we consider an honor 
to our city and country." 

In reply, the General expressed his happiness at suck 
a cordial reception from the ladies of Troy : and was 
then conducted up the arbor to the front of the edifice, 
on the steps of which, the principal of the Seminary, 
Mrs. Emma Willard, was waiting to receive him. The 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 17 1 

steps ascended from each side, and en their front was an 
arch, surrounded by evergreens and flowers, bearing this 
well adapted inscription: 

" We owe our schools to freedom — freedom to La- 
fayette." 

He was handed up the steps and introduced to Mrs. 
Willard by Mrs. Pawling. On the landing place he 
found himself under a canopy of evergreens and flow- 
ers, from the centre of which, and directly over his 
head, was suspended a beautiful wreath. 

Here the principal of the seminary was standing, at 
the entrance of the hall, and within it her beautiful 
school was arrayed, with their instructress of music, pre?- 
pared to perform the following fine lines, written for the 
occasion, by Mrs. Willard herself. When the General 
had been introduced, they were sung. 

And art thou, then, clear Hero come ? 
And do our eyes behold the man, 

Who nerved his arm and bared his breast 
For us, ere yet our life began ? 

For us and for our native land, 
Thy youthful valor dared the war ; 

And now, in winter of thine age, 
Thou'st come and left thy lov'd ones far. 

CHORUS. 

Then deep and dear thy welcome be ; 
Nor think thy daughters far from thee : 
Columbia's daughters, lo ! we bend, 
And claim to call thee Father, Friend J 

But waa't our country's rights alone 
Impell'd Fayette to Freedom's van ! 

No ! 'twas the love of human kind — 
It was <he sacred cause of man — 

It was benevolence sublime. 
Like that which sways the Eternal mind ! 

And benefactor of the world, 
He shed his blood for all mankind ! 

CHORUS. 

Then deep and dear thy welcome be ; 
Nor think thy daughters far from thee : 
Daughters of human kind we bend, 
And claim to call thee Father, Friesd ! 

The instructress of music, Miss Smith, whose voice is 
one of almost unmatched sweetness and richness of 
tone, and who plays and sings with great expression. 



J 72 JfOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

performed the air, accompanying her voice on the piano ; 
and the whole school joined in the chorus. 

At the close of the music, two pupils, one of them the 
daughter of his excellency Governor Van Ness, of Ver- 
mont, and the other, the daughter of his excellency 
Governor Cass, of Michigan, stepped forward, as the 
representatives of the youth of their own sex through- 
out the country, and presented him, one a copy of Mrs. 
Willard's "Plan of Female Education," and the other, 
a copy of the lines just sung, beautifully printed on a 
sheet of embossed paper, bordered with blue. 

The General was then handed from the steps and 
down the arbor, by the principal of the Seminary, follow T 
ed by the committee of ladies. At the entrance of the 
arbour next the street, the barouche was in waiting, into 
which he was handed by Colonel Lane, when the escort 
received him again, and conducted him down to the fer- 
ry, on his return to Albany. 

On Saturday morning he took passage in the steam 
boat, James Kent, for New York, and arrived on Mon- 
day in excellent health and spirits. 

In the afternoon of Monday, he dined with the Ma- 
sons, at Washington Hall, and in the evening visited the 
Park Theatre. The masonic dinner is said to have 
been one of the most splendid festivals that has ever 
taken place in this country. There were five hundred 
of the fraternity present, elegantly dressed. Six tables 
were extended in a parallel direction almost the length 
of the spacious saloon, at either end of which, elevated 
considerably higher than the others, were the tables 
at which were seated the officers of the Grand Lodge 
and guests. The hall, says the New York Patriot, was 
crossed by two superb arches, extending from the cor- 
ners, and crossing each other near the ceiling in the cen- 
tre of the room ; from their junction was suspended a 
brilliant sun, about six feet in diameter. In the end of 
the room in which Lafayette sat, a large arch canopy, 
pf evergreens, flowers, 6>x. was erected for the recep- 
tion of the illustrious chief ; and back of the table was 



SOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 173 

an illuminated and truly magnificent representation of 
the Masonic Temple. Beneath, an illuminated arch, on 
one of the walls of the saloon, were paintings represent- 
ing Washington and Hamilton : and at the end opposite 
to that at which Lafayette sat, a handsome allegorical 
painting, illuminated, was placed : this represented 
Washington and Lafayette, hand in hand, while the 
genius of liberty was crowning both Avith laurel. The 
walls were festooned with flowers, evergreens, and flags, 
and the banners of the various masonic associations were 
displayed around the room. 

The General left New York on Thursday, to proceed 
upon his southern tour. Previous to his departure, he 
was presented by Mr. Mumford, with the memorable 
Cane worn by Franklin, and which he left in his will to 
Washington. 

At Jersey city he was welcomed by Governor Wil- 
liamson, and escorted by squadrons of horse and a caval- 
cade. At Bergen, the deputation of the toAvn, with oth- 
er offerings, presented him with a Cane made from an 
apple tree, under which Washington and Lafayette once 
dined during the revolution. His progress was announc- 
ed by salutes. At Newark his reception was unusually 
splendid. Three thousand infantry and five hundred 
horse were paraded, and reviewed. The procession 
was long, and among others, was the deputation from 
New York city. 

After partaking of a collation with Major Boudinot, 
he proceeded for Elizabethtown, accompanied by the 
Governor, and a numerous cortege, proceeded by a mili- 
tary escort. 

At Elizabethtown, he was received by the corpo- 
ration of the city. C. Halste, Esq. the Mayor, welcom- 
ed him in the following address. 
"General Lafayette — 

Your adopted country rejoices in this opportunity of 
offering you a Nation's homage. Less than fifty years 
have elapsed, since the story of our colonial oppressions 
called you to our shores, a youthful, but gallant soldier in 



174 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

the camp of freedom. At that period, you could only 
receive the soldier's welcome to the embattled field, and 
be pointed to the enemy within our borders ; the wel- 
come of the kindred spirits of our revolution to an hon- 
ourable share in tlie glorious, but then almost hopeless 
struggle for independence. This we know, was then a 
sufficient welcome to the heart that could bleed for 
others' wrongs ; and to the feelings of him who could 
forget the allurements of rank and fortune, and hazard all 
on the event of a doubtful contest, in vindication of stran* 
gers' rights. 

We recollect, with pride, that our armies were then 
led by heroes, worthy brothers in arms in the cause of 
liberty— that we had a beloved Washington to extend to 
you the right hand of fellowship, and to share with you 
the dangers of the field. Your name and virtues are en- 
graven with Iris on the tablets of our hearts, and with his 
shall be transmitted to our children's children, with ac- 
cumulating honour. We have already experienced bles- 
sings which give some measure, by which we can esti- 
mate the value of your services. The short period of a 
single life has given birth to a nation, and brought it to an 
eminence Avhich commands the admiration of the world. 

In the morning of that life which you devoted to our 
destinies, clouds and darkness rested upon them. Our 
hearts glow with gratitude, that before your sun has gone 
down, we are enabled to welcome you to bright and hap- 
py scenes of domestic peace, and of unexampled national 
prosperity. 

I beg you to accept from the corporation of this Bo- 
rough, the assurance of their profound esteem and grate- 
ful remembrance. And permit me, sir, in their name, 
and in accordance with my own feelings, to bid you a 
most cordial welcome to the land and hearts of free- 
men." 

The General was then conducted to a platform in front 
of the hotel, where he was met by the M. W. Grand 
Master Munn, who in presence of a large concourse of 
his masonic brethren, presented our illustrious brother, in 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 175 

behalf of Washington Lodge, an appropriate gold med- 
al, and made a pertinent address. 

He passed the night with his early friend General 
Jonathan Dayton. At ten o'clock on Friday, the party 
resumed their journey — and were detained a short time 
at Rahway and Woodbridge,iat both of which places the 
General was handsomely received. 

At Brunswick, where ample preparations had been 
made, the cavalcade arrived at four o'clock. 

The General was addressed, in behalf of the Corpora- 
tion by Dr. Taylor, after which the party sat down to a 
splendid dinner at Follet's hotel. Several rural arches 
had been erected injhis city as well as at the several 
towns before mentioned. 

On the 25th September he left N. Brunswick for 
Princeton. He was met at Kingston by the committee 
of arrangements, and the Princeton Cavalry and infantry. 
While at Princeton, the president of the institution at 
that place, after a pertinent address, presented the Gen- 
eral with the Diploma made out in the year 1790, sign- 
ed by the late Dr. Witherspoon, then president, and the 
then Trustees of the College. 

At two o'clock, the cavalcade arrived at Trenton, 
where about 3000 troops, and an immense multitude of 
people had assembled. The General was conducted to 
the state-house, at the gate of which was erected the 
triumphal arch under which General Washington pass- 
ed, on his journey to New-York, to be inaugurated as 
President of the U. States. Here he was met by a 
choir of 24 young ladies, each having the name of a state 
imprinted on the waist ribband. The General playfully 
remarked, without any reflection upon the sovereign 
congress, that the states were never so well represent- 
ed before. The following address was delivered by the 
Mayor. 

" Sir — The citizens of Trenton most cordially and affec- 
tionately bid you welcome among them. 

To receive upon this spot, where your friend, our il- 
lustrious Washington, raised the first successful barrier 



176 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

against the relentless tide of oppression, which in the 
eventful period of seventy-six, was rolling over our coun- 
trv ; the hero who, in the succeeding stages of our rev- 
olutionary struggle, acted so conspicuous a part, and con- 
tributed so essentially to its glorious termination, cannot 
fail to awaken the most agreeable sensations. 

Next to our beloved Washington, there is no name en- 
twined with deeper interest in the hearts of Jerseymen 
than Lafayette. None which they will transmit to their 
posterity, encircled with a wreath of nobler praise, or 
embalmed with the incense of purer love, than that of 
the interesting stranger who embarked his life and for- 
tune upon the tempestuous ocean of our Revolution — 
and who fought at Brandywine — a't Monmouth and at 
Yorktown, to procure for Americans those blessings you 
now see them so fully enjoy. 

The aged Veteran, who partook with you the fatigues 
and dangers of the camp — the march and the battle — 
hails your return to the land of your youthful exploits, 
with sentiments of fraternal love — a love cemented by 
the blood you mutually shed, and the toils you mutually 
endured in the glorious contest. 

The present generation, too young to share with you 
in the conflict, look to you with feelings of filial love and 
veneration — from their infancy they have been taught to 
unite your name with the fathers of our country, and 
they doubt not that your heart still beats with the same 
warm affection to this people, as when in the attitude of 
the youthful warrior, you flung your shield before our 
infant republic. 

Our gratitude delights in rearing this day to you sir, a 
civic arch, rendered to us deeply interesting by being the 
same, which five and thirty years ago, served to evince 
our attachment to our beloved and revered Washing- 
ton — but all sir, that you see or hear, can but inadequate- 
ly convey the warmth of those feelings by which the 
citizens of this place are actuated towards you — and the 
joy it affords them to receive you as their guest." 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



177 



An address was also delivered by General Stryker, 
on the part of -the militia of the state, to which General 
Lafayette returned a very flattering reply. 

He afterwards dined with the corporation, and sup- 
ped with the Cincinnati. To the address of the Cincin- 
nati the General made this reply : 

" Mv friends, I want words to express the happiness 
I feel in thus meeting my brothers and companions in 
arms in the state of New Jersey. My heart thanks you 
for vour affectionate remembrance of me, and for the 
kind manner in which you have expressed it. This hap- 
py country is now in the full enjoyment of the invaluable 
benefits of those sacred rights of human nature for 
which we fought and bled ; and we must not despair of 
their final triumph on the other side of the Atlantic. — 
I regret that so many of the society are no more ; and I 
wish to express my most affectionate regards for the 
survivors. To the New-Jersey line particular praise and 
honor is due, for their distinguished services in the ar- 
duous contest. I beg you, sir, to communicate to each 
of the Society my best wishes for his individual happi- 
ness and prosperity.'' 

On Sundav morning he attended divine service at the 
Presbyterian church, and in the afternoon visited Jo- 
seph Buonaparte, with whom he spent two hours. It was 
an interesting meeting; both were deeply affected, and 
warmly embraced each other. 

He crossed the Delaware at eleven o'clock on Mon- 
day morning, escorted by the Governor of New-Jersey, 
and the committee of Trenton, and was received on the 
Pennsylvania shore by the Governor of Pennsylvania, in 
the presence of his staff, the committee of the city of 
Philadelphia, and a brilliant display of troops. " He 
was addressed by the Governor, to which the General 
made an affectionate reply. 

We have hitherto been particular in detailing every 

circumstance of interest connected with the reception 

of the General on his tour through New-England. As 

he approaches south from Philadelphia, it would be ur- 

23 



178 TOUR OE LAFAYETTE. 

necessary, and perhaps uninteresting to the generality of 
our readers to be thus minute. It would also cause us 
to exceed the highest number of pages marked out in 
the prospectus. Whatever of interest, may attach it- 
self to his reception in future, whether grave and seri- 
ous, anecdotal or otherwise,will be related with a brevi- 
ty and conciseness, (not losing sight of any thing impor- 
tant) which may be more appropriate, and more accep- 
table to our readers. 

The addresses which have been delivered by the mu- 
nicipal authorities of the various towns and cities through 
which the General has passed, and so cordially wel- 
comed, as well as the replies thereto, the various mot- 
tos and inscriptions, which have adorned the banners 
and civic arches, must from the nature of the case, 
aside from some few local circumstances and events, 
participate somewhat of similarity. But that similarity 
is nothing less than the spontaneous burst of a Nation'* 
Gratitude. 



ENTREE INTO PHILADELPHIA. 

His reception in this city was grand beyond descrip- 
tion. The procession reached about four miles, and oc- 
cupied the space of one hour and ten minutes in enter- 
ing the city. 

The men were formed in platoons of from eight to 
sixteen in open order. Taking as much of the line as it 
was possible to embrace in one view, the effect was very 
imposing. The splendid dresses and excellent ace utre- 
ments of the military, the fine equipment of the pri- 
vate citizens, the banners of colored silk waving in the 
wind, the gilded standards, and the emblems of the dif- 
ferent mechanic arts, all conspired to give splendour to 
the scene. 

As the General approached the arch at Vine street, 
twenty-four young girls, dressed in white, with garland* 
of flowers, sung the following song : 

Strike the cymbal, roll the tymbal, 
Sound the trumpets, beat the drums, 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE 179 

Loudly ringing, cheerily singing, 

Lo, the patriot hero comes. 
Great commoner, slighting honour, 

Here the youthful hero came, 
Aiding strangers, braving dangers, 

Human freedom was his aim. 
Troops come prancing — sre advancing, 

All Columbia's sons and daughters, 
Greet the hero lands and waters. 

Streamers streaming, shouts proclaiming 

Far and near the hero's name. 
God of thunder, rend asunder 

All the pow'r that tyrants boast. 
What are nations, what their stations, 

When compared with freedom's host ? 
What are mighty monarchs now, 
While at freedom's shrine we bow, 
Pride of princes, strength of kings, 
To the dust fair freedom brings, 
Hail him — Hail him — let each exulting band, 
Welcome Fayette — to freedom's happy land, 
All hail him — all hail — all hail him. 

About the same time the John Adams, anchored in 
the stream opposite to Vine street, fired a salute. When 
the General arrived opposite to the State house, anoth- 
er salute was fired by the firigate, and the bells of Christ 
church " rang a merry peal/' 

Included in the order of procession, were one hundred 
and fifty revolutionary heroes, drawn in three cars of 
great magnitude, with four horses each, trimmed with 
white and red, and the cars decorated with evergreens, 
flags, and emblematical descriptions. Each soldier wore 
the revolutionary cockade. On one side of the first car, 
in large gold letters, were the words, " Defenders of our 
country ;" on the other, " The survivors of 1776 ;" in 
front, " Washington ;" in the rear, " Lafayette ;" also a 
Jarge car, containing a body of printers, and in which 
were the various articles belonging to a printing office. 
The compositors and pressmen were at work, and the 
latter distributed from the press an ode, prepared for 
the occasion, by Alderman Barker. The members of 
the Typographical Society followed, preceded by a ban- 
ner, inscribed, " Lafayette, the friend of universal liber- 
ty, and the rights of the press." 



180 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

There were also two hundred cordwaincrs, with, 
badges, emblems, &c. ; three hundred weavers ; one 
hundred aud fifty rope makers ; one hundred and fifty 
lads ; one hundred ship builders ; seven hundred me- 
chanics, of different occupations ; one hundred and fifty 
coopers, preceded by a car, containing a cooper's shop, 
with workmen, fitting staves, and driving hoops, &c. j 
one huudred and fifty butchers, handsomely mounted on 
horseback ; between two and three hundred cartmen, 
mounted with aprons trimmed with blue ; a body of 
two hundred riflemen, handsomely dressed ; artillery 
with field pieces ; a brigade of infantry in uniform ; and 
a body of about three hundred farmers from the sur- 
rounding country. 

The following is the address of the mayor, and the 
General's reply : 

" General, — The citizens of Philadelphia welcome to 
their homes the patriot who has long been dear to their 
hearts. 

Grateful, at all times, for the enjoyment of a free gov- 
ernment, they are, on this occasion, peculiarly anxious, 
but unable to express a deep felt sentiment of pure arfec- 
tion towards those venerated men, whose martial and 
civic virtues, under Providence, have conferred upon 
themselves, and their descendants, this mighty blessing. 

Forty eight years ago, in this city, and in this hallow- 
ed hall, which may emphatically be called the birth 
place of independence, a convention of men, such as the 
world has rarely seen, pre-eminent for talents and patri- 
otism, solemnly declared their determination to assume 
for themselves the right of self-government, and that 
they and their posterity should thenceforth assert their 
just rank among the nations of the earth. A small, but 
cherished band, of those who breasted the storm, and 
sustained the principles thus promulgated to the world, 
still remain. In the front rank of these worthies, histo- 
ry will find, and we now delight to honour, General La- 
fayette, whose whole life has been devoted to the cause 
of freedom, and to the support of the unalienable rights 
of man. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE, 



181 



General — Many of your co-patriots have passed away, 
but the remembrance oi* their virtues, and their services, 
shall never pass from the minds of this people ; their's 
is an imperishable fame, the property of ages yet to 
come. But we turn from the fond recollection of the 
illustrious dead, to hail with heart felt joy the illustrious 
living, and again bid welcome, most kindly and affection- 
ately welcome, to the guest of the nation, the patriot 
Lafayette." 

To which the General was pleased to make the fol- 
lowing reply : — 

" My entrance through this fair and great city, amidst 
the most solemn and affecting recollections, and under 
all the circumstances of a welcome, which no expression 
could adequately acknowledge, has excited emotions in 
my heart, in which are mingled the feelings of nearly 
fifty years. 

Here, sir, within these sacred walls, by a council of 
wise and devoted patriots, and in a style worthy of the 
deed itself, was boldly declared the independence of 
these vast United States, which, while it anticipated the 
independence, and, I hope, the republican independence, 
of the whole American hemisphere, has begun, for the 
civilized world, the era of a new, and of the only social 
order, founded on the unalienable rights of man, the 
practicability and advantages of which are every day 
admirably demonstrated by the happiness and prosperi- 
ty of your populous city. 

Here, sir, was planned the formation of our virtuous, 
brave revolutionary army, and the providential inspira- 
tion received, that gave the command of it to our belov- 
ed, matchless Washington. But these and many other 
remembrances, arc mingled with a deep regret for the 
numerous cotemporaries, for the great and good men 
whose loss we have remained to mourn. It is to their 
services, Sir, to your regard for their memory, to your 
knowledge of the friendships I have enjoyed, that I refer 
the greater part of honors here and elsewhere received^ 
much superior to my individual merit. 



182 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

It is also under the auspices of their venerated names, 
as well as under the impulse of my own sentiments, that 
I beg you, Mr. Mayor, you, gentlemen of both councils, 
and all the citizens of Philadelphia, to accept the tri- 
bute of my affectionate respect and profound gratitude." 

To describe the mottos on the numerous arches, and 
the appropriate exhibition of portraits in front of the 
printing offices, would transcend the limits prescribed to 
our work. Suffice it to say, they exhibited specimens of 
literature aud taste, worthy the occasion which called 
them forth. The illumination, though not universal, was 
general, and, in many parts of the city, brilliant. Por- 
traits of distinguished patriots, civilians, and warriors, 
were transparently exhibited ; and in front of the Coffee 
flouse, was placed a picture of La Bonne Mere, the 
Good Mother. This was the name of the ship in which 
General Layette first sailed for this country. She was 
about 400 tons burthen, and commanded by Capt. Le 
Boursier. 

During the afternoon, the General paid several visits 
in a private carriage. The illumination ceased about 
eleven o'clock. The number of persons assembled, was 
estimated at one hundred thousand ; in addition to 
which were ten thousand troops. 

The following is the address of the state society of 
Cincinnati of Pennsylvania to General Lafayette, in the 
hall of independence, by Major William Jackson. 

General, — In accordance with national gratitude, and 
the most affectionate personal attachment, the State so- 
ciety of the Cincinnati of Pennsylvania hail with heart felt 
welcome, your auspicious return to the United States, 
to whose freedom and happiness the flower of your 
youth, and the friendship of your life, have been un- 
ceasingly devoted ; and to whose glorious attainment of 
national sovereignty and independence, your valour and 
your virtue were eminently conducive. 

The lapse of forty years has greatly reduced the roll 
of our original associates ; but their descendants, inher- 
iting the sentiments of their sires, and instructed by the 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 18? 

faithful record of your worth, unite most cordially with 
the surviving few of your companions in arms to felici- 
tate your arrival, and to cherish your residence in the 
land of your adoption, whose unrivalled prosperity must 
impart the most pleasing sensations to your sympathetic 
breast, and even enhance the grateful and unanimous 
congratulations of a free and happy people. 

With fervent wishes for a long continuance of your 
health and happiness, we are, General, your faithful and 
affectionate friends. 

(Signed in behalf of the Society,) 

D. LENOX, President. 

To the address of the Cincinnati Society, General La- 
fayette replied, in expressing his pleasure to meet again 
his brothers in arms, his regret for the companions we 
have lost. He observed, that in the very hall where he 
had the happiness to receive them, he was, for the first 
time, admitted by Congress to the honor and inexpressi- 
ble gratification to rank among the soldiers of America. 

We, soldiers of national independence and equal rights, 
added he, cannot but be particularly proud of those 

fmnciples, the happy consequences of which we have 
ived to witness. He offered to the society his most af- 
fectionate and grateful thanks. 

An address was also delivered by the citizens of Phil- 
adelphia in their collective capacity, to which the Gen- 
eral affectionately replied. 

On visiting the navy yard, he was received by Com- 
modore Barron, and addressed by Dr. Sutherland,, in be- 
half of the citizens of Southwark. The veteran's reply 
was characterised by that feeling and impressiveness, 
which have hitherto marked his productions. After 
reviewing a body of marines upon the parade ground, 
under Major Gamble, he partook of an excellent colla- 
tion, with a highly respectable company. Bishop 
White pronounced a blessing, subsequent to wbiich the 
General was addressed by Commodore Barron. 

After leaving the parade ground, he passed in front 
of about five hundred male and female children, belong:* 



184 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

ing to the free schools of Southwark, who were drawn 
up on either side of an elegant arch, under which the 
General entered the yard. As he passed along the line 
of children, about fifty little girls sung the following ode, 
written for the occasion, by Mr. William B. Tappan :— 

Son of valor ! heir of glory ! 

Noble by the patriot's line, 
Gallant warrior ; chieftain hoary ! 

Immortality is thine ! 
Wreath the laurel, muses ! wreath it ; 

'Tis for no ignoble name, 
Breathe the song, inspirers ! breathe it ; 

Worthy of the vet'ran's fame ; 

When a people, true to brav'ry, 

Saw the tempest gath'ring nigh, 
Heard the manacles of slav'ry 

Rattle in the turbid sky, 
Triumph! thou, who liv'st to say it ; 

Thtn arose proud vic'try's son ! 
Crush'd is slavery ! for Lafayette 

Wears the meed that valour won 1 

Haste ! ye nobles, vainly borrow 

Lustre from the scroll of peers ; 
While it dies, the name of warrior 

Brightens with the touch of years ! 
And, though mingled with his fathers, 

In the slumbers of the tomb, 
Time, who saps the palace, gathers 

For the heio fresher bloom. 

Go and mark him ! shades of even 

Soon shall lurk around his bed ; 
Go and mark him ! winds of heaven 

Soon shall sweep that wint'ry head I 
Yet, with flowers will we array it, 

Fairer than the poet's dream ! 
Perish silence ! when Lafayette, 

Is a nation's grateful theme 1 

On the evening of the 4th of October, the General 
attended the grand civic ball given at the new theatre, 
Avhich is represented as exceeding in beauty and magnifi- 
cence any thing of the kind ever beheld in the city. Be- 
tween fifteen and seventeen hundred ladies and gentle- 
men were present, exhibiting an unrivalled galaxy of 
fashion, elegance and splendor. 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 185 

Among the very elegant and appropriate mottos aud 
inscriptions, we transcribe the following :— - 

Directly over the entrance to the ball room, in letters 
of gold, upon a light blue ground, was an inscription ex- 
pressing the cordial and universal Avelcome given to the 
nation's illustrious guest : 

" If, to our thoughts, there could but speech be found, 
" And all that speech be uttered in one sound, 
" It should be welcome." 
In the left arm of the lobby, and corresponding with 
the foregoing, was the following: 
" Pompey's dignity, 
The innocence of Cato, Caesar's spirit, 
Wise Brutus' temperance, and every virtue, 
Which, parted unto others, gave them name, 
Flow, mixed in Him." 
In the right arm of the lobby, and corresponding with 
the foregoing, was the following : 

•' Non civium arbor prava jubentium, 
" Non vultus instantis tyrauni 

" Menti quatit solida." 
An exceedingly striking part of the entertainment, 
was the annunciation of a toast, to be drunk by all the 
company simultaneously, precisely at twelve o'clock. 
Without naming the guest, he was exclusively, and 
most tastefully alluded to in the following : 
" Disinterested Valor : 
" Its fruits unenvied Glory, and unbounded Gratitude" 
A line flourish of trumpets preceded the preparation 
for the toast. It was then audibly proclaimed by one of 
the managers ; at the same instant, a superb banner 
dropped from the ceiling, immediately back of the pro- 
cenium, on both sides of which it was splendidly inscrib- 
ed, and the terminating scene of the ball room suddenly 
disappeared, leaving, in its place, a fine allegorical paint- 
ing, representing the bust of Lafayette, about to be 
crowned with victory, and Fame, proclaiming from her 
trump, " A nation's gratitude." 

There were many other inscriptions, with likenesses 
of Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Hancock, Mifflin, &c. aud 
" The hall appeared 
A palace of enchantment, formed by magic, 
24 



180 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

" Of an entire and perfect chrysolite." 

So bright it glow'd, so bright, the eye at first 

Mark'd not the wonders that wt're there achieved. 

Above, below, around, on fvcry side, 

On pillar, dome, and floor, by taste and art." 

While the General was in Philadelphia, every mark 
of attention and respect, which gratitude could suggest* 
was paid to the illustrious visiter. 

BALTIMORE. 

The reception of the General, by the citizens of Balti- 
more, was no less splendid than that of her sister cities^ 
It would be impossible <o detail every circumstance 
that occurred here, as well as his intermediate visits to 
Annapolis, Norfolk, Petersburg,R ichmond, Alexandria, to 
Washington and Yorktown, without greatly exceeding 
the limits prescribed to our work. At this place, how- 
ever, as in every other, something of a novel character 
transpired. On the fort, where he first landed, was 
brought to his view, the tent of the immortal Washing- 
ton. His excellency Governor Stevens, here pronoun- 
ced an elegant address, which was as elegantly replied 
to by the General. In alluding to the tent of Wash- 
ington, Gov. S. in his address, observes, " Beneath this 
venerable canopy, many a *ime, and oft, have you grasp- 
ed the friendly hand of our illustrious Washington, aided 
his council with your animating voice, or shared with 
him the hardy soldier's meal. The incidents which the 
association so forcibly recals, however inspiring, it were 
needless to dwell upon. The recollection of them fills 
the mind with gratitude, a full measure of which is justly 
due to you, as the generous companion of our fathers, the 
gallant and disinterested soldier of liberty." 

The following extract from the General's reply, evin- 
ces the lively feelings of his soul : — 

" This tent, sir, under which I now answer your affec- 
tionate address, the monument erected to the memory 
of our great and good commander in chief, the column of 
a later date, bearing testimony of a most glorious event, 
my entrance in a city long ago dear to me, and now be- 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 1>}7 

oome so beautiful and prosperous, fill my heart with 
sentiments in which you have had the goodness to sym- 
pathise." 

The Governor then conducted him to the tent where 
the society of Cincinnati were assembled. He embra- 
ced them all. T ne scene was most impressive and 
touching ; every face was bathed in tears. 

He was afterwards addressed by Colonel Howard. 
From the fort he proceeded to the city in a barouche, 
drawn by four black horses, escorted by cavalry. On 
his passing the store of Mr. Bool, in Market street, a 
gun brig in miniature, named alter the daughters of the 
General, Virginia and Carolina, elegantly dressed in the 
flags of all nations, fired a salute. The novelty of the 
scene elicited a roar of applause from the surrounding 
multitude, and the approbation of our GUEST. On his 
arrival at the council chamber, the Mayor delivered an 
excellent address, and received as excellent a reply. 

Another circumstance, which must have been pleasing 
to the General, as it was urbane and honorable on the 
part of the deputation of Baltimore, is, that in this city, 
he was unexpectedly associated with the Hon. JOHN 
QU1NCY ADAMS, who was on his way to the seat of 
Government. When statesmen, like LAFAYETTE 
and ADAMS meet ; the one an instrument, under om- 
nipotence, of relieving a suffering and injured people 
from bondage ; and the other, of perpetuating, and ad- 
hering to the sacred principles of national right, and 
civil liberty, Ave perhaps behold two of the brightest 
stars in the constellation of freedom. The city, in the 
evening, was brilliantly illuminated, and the whole scene 
was cheerful, and interesting. During his visit to this 
city, he received addresses from the French residents in 
the place ; from the University of Maryland, (who also 
conferred the honorary degree of doctor of laws,) and 
others ; to all which he replied with feeling and affec- 
tion. His visit to the Univerity was peculiarly interest- 
ing ; the diploma presented to him was accompanied by 
a silver box for its inclosure. He was also presented 
with a diploma of the Agricultural Society. After his 



lOO TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

return from the University, he received the visits oi the 
ladies at his apartments. He also dined with the Cin- 
cinnati of Maryland. He visited the museum, the ma- 
sonic hall, and the Cathedral. It is a remarkable fact, 
that on the identical spot where the cathedral is erectedj 
was pitched the tent of Lafayette in the revolutionary- 
war. We shall close the visit to Baltimore, with the 
following interesting address and answer. 

About nine o'clock on Monday morning, General La- 
fayette was waited on, at his apartments, by a number of 
clergymen of the Methodist Episcopal Church. On be- 
ing presented, the Rev. Mr. Merwin delivered the fol- 
lowing address. 

" General, — We salute you as the ministers of the gos- 
pel, and present ourselves before you as the representa- 
tives of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the city and 
precincts of Baltimore. We congratulate you, sir, on 
your safe arrival in our happy country, we greet yon 
with a hearty welcome. And be assured, sjr, that we 
participate in the general and heartfelt joy of our fellow 
citizens at your visiting this country. We respect your 
character, feel grateful for your services, and rejoice in 
that liberty, civil and religious, which you risked 
your life to procure. [Here the General seized the hand 
of the speaker.] We, sir, are the ministers of a peaceful 
gospel. [The General again grasping the hand of Mr. 
Merwin, with both of his, exclaimed, " Yes, it is a 
peaceful gospel ! It destroys all animosity, it harmonizes 
all hearts,"] Mr. Merwin proceeded, " A peaceful gos- 
pel which has for its bject the present, future, and 
eternal happiness of man ; and we most devoutly pray, 
that you may share in its richest blessings, that your fu- 
ture days may be crowned with honor, that your end 
may attain that eternal life that remaineth to the people 
of God." 

The General still holding Mr. Merwin's hand within 
both his, immediately replied, and with evident token of 
deep interest : — 

" I am happy, sir, to receive this mark of respect from 
the ministers of a peaceful gospel, and I am sorry I have 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 189 

.not time more fully to express to you the cordiality with 
which I receive this evidence of your respect." 

Mr. Merwin then introduced an aged and venerable 
minister, who, embracing the hand of the General, ob- 
served, " I had the happiness to see you, General, when 
you were in circumstances less favorable and pleasant 
than you are now ; I saw you, Sir, when you came into 
Philadelphia, wounded, from the battle of Brandywine." 
Here the General, in the fullness of his heart, said to the 
venerable minister, " I am glad to see you, my respected 
old friend ; I hope God will bless you." [Clasping him 
with both hands.] Each minister was then severally in- 
troduced by Mr. Merwin, and shook the hand of the 
General, with every mark of attention and esteem. 

A gentleman, at the request of three ladies of Freder- 
icktown, presented General Lafayette at the Exchange, 
with a plant emblematic of their wishes, (life everlast- 
ing.) 



RECEPTION AT WASHINGTON. 

The Guest of the nation arrived at the metropolis, on 
Tuesday, the 12th of October. He was received with 
the splendor becoming the capitol of the nation, and 
which reflected honor on the committee of arrangements. 
The General's barouche was neatly and appropriately 
decorated, and drawn by four elegant grey horses, hand- 
somely caparisoned, and led by four grooms, dressed in 
white, with blue sashes. A salute was fired on the arri- 
val of the procession, at the boundary lines. 

The following is the order in which it entered the 
capitol. 

Two Marshals, in advance. 
Marshal. Cavalry. Marshal. 

Detachment of Marines. 
Marshal. Gen. Smith's brigade. Marshal. 



190 



TOUll OP LAFAYETTE. 





^ 




L, 




a 




> 


. 


a 


"a 


O 


M 




to 


>>, 



Committee of arrange meats. 
Marshal in chief. 

General Lafayette. 



5^ 






Marshal. 






p 



p r- 
p^ 



Marshal. 



The General's suite. 
Revolutionary officers. 
Officers of the army and navy. 
Officers of the militia. 

Troop of cavalry. 

Company of artillery. 

Infantry. 

Faculty, and students of colleges. 

Societies, and other associations. 

Cavalcade of citizens. 

The street, for upwards of two miles, was lined on 

each side, with citizens and strangers, in carriages and 

on foot to welcome their benefactor and friend. 

The eastern front of the Market-house, on the East 
Capitol street, was formed into an arch, and decorated 
with appropriate m ottos and emblematic devices, and 
surmounted by a living eagle, who moved his wings at 
the moment the General passed, as if stimulated by the 
feelings of delight which animated all. 

After passing under an arch tastefully decorated, the 
General was met by twenty-five young ladies from nine 
to fourteen years of age, representing the twenty-four 
States of the Union, and the District of Columbia. 

This interesting little group was dressed in white and 
blue sarsenet scarfs, and wreaths of roses around their 
temples. Each bore a banner, designating the state 
and district which she represented. They had been 
previously escorted from Mr. Seaton's to the Capitol, 
by some juvenile companies, in uniform, and took their 
station on both sides of the civic a"ch. As soon as the 
General had entered, Miss Sarah M. Waterston, repre- 
senting the District of Columbia, and about eleven years 
old, advanced, and addressed him in the 
words : 



following 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 191 

" Gen. Lafayette — A new generation, as well as new 
cities and new states, have arisen to welcome thy re- 
turn to the land thy valor assisted to make free. In us, 
Sir, you behold the youthful offspring of those whose 
lives you protected, and whose safety you watched over, 
in the hour of peril and amidst the conflicts of war. — 
The young and the old, virgins and matrons, alike wel- 
come thee, as the gallant defender of their country — as 
one, by whose generous assistance, we now enjoy the 
blessings of freedom. Our youthful bosoms heave with 
emotions of gratitude, in beholding you, whose name 
we have been taught to lisp with veneration, and our 
hearts will never cease to cherish the recollection of 
this interesting occasion. Accept, illustrious Chief, this 
humble homage of our young, but grateful hearts — it is 
all we can, and all we have to offer ; but our prayer is, 
and ever will be, that your declining age may be pil- 
lowed by affection, and that peace and happiness, the 
attendants of virtue may follow you to the tomb. Asso- 
ciate of our Washington, and friend of liberty, the Dis- 
trict delights to hail thee as its guest and in the name of 
that district, I now welcome you to its capital. The 
present generation esteem and honor you ; and millions, 
yet unborn, will love and venerate your name." 

The General appeared gratified at this manifestation 
of gratitude in the beautiful and interesting group of 
young ladies before him : and thanking them cordially, 
and with deep emotion, he shook hands with each, and 
passed on, through an avenue formed by the male and 
female scholars of the seminaries of the city, extending 
from the civic arch to the Capitol. 

Arrived at the Capitol, he was addressed by the May- 
or of the city in a feeling manner ; to which the Gener- 
al gave the following reply : — 

The kind and flattering reception with which I am 
honored by the citizens of Washington, excite the most 
lively feeling of gratitude ; those grateful feelings, Sir, 
at every step of my happy visit to the United States, 
could not but enhance the inexpressible delight I have 



192 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

enjoyed at the sight of the immense and wonderful im- 
provements, so far beyond even the fondest anticipations 
of a warm American heart ; and which, in the space of 
forty years, have so gloriously evinced the superiority of 
popular institutions, and self-government, over the too 
inperfect state of political civilization, found in every 
part of the other hemisphere. In this august place, 
which bears the most venerable of all ancient and mod- 
ern names, I have, Sir, the pleasure to contemplate, not 
only a centry of that constitutional Union so necessary 
to these states, so important to the interest of mankind, 
but also a great political school, where, attentively ob- 
served from other parts of the world, may be taught 
the practical scienceof true social order. 

Among the circumstances of my life to which you have 
been pleased to allude, none can afford me such dear re- 
collections as my having been early adopted as an Amer- 
ican soldier, so there is not a circumstance of my recep- 
tion in which 1 take so much pride, as in sharing those 
honors with my beloved companions in arms. Happy I 
am to feel that the marks of affection and esteem bes- 
towed on me, bear testimony to my perse rvance in the 
American principles I receive under the tent of Wash- 
ington, and of which I shall, to my last breath, prove 
myself a devoted disciple. I beg you, Mr. Mayor, and 
the gentlemen of the Corporation, to accept my respect- 
ful acknowledgments to you and to the citizens of Wash- 
ington." 

Dr. Cutting then pronounced an elegant Poetical ad- 
dress — which will be found among our selections at the 
end of the volume. 

The General replied as follows : 

" While I embrace you, Sir, and make my acknowl- 
edgements to those of our Revolutionary comrades in 
whose name you welcome me to this Metropolis, be as- 
sured that I reciprocate those kind expressions o^ attach- 
ment, which, from them, are peculiarly gratifying. And, 
although in doing this, it cannot be expected that I 
should command such beautiful language as you employ. 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 193 

yet 1 speak from the bottom of my heart, when f assure 
you, that the associations of time and place to which 
you allude, exalt the interest which I shall ever feel in 
your prosperity, and that of every meritorious individual 
who belonged to the revolutionary army of the United 
States. 

After having been addressed by the Mayor of 
Georgetown, he was again conducted, through an im- 
mense assemblage of ladies and gentlemen, in the great 
rotunda, to the eastern entrance of the north wing of the 
Capitol, where he reviewed the fine uniform troops that 
had previously escorted him from the boundary line of the 
city. 

The General, escorted as before, now proceeded to 
the President's house, where the President, and the civil, 
military, and naval officers of the government received 
him, with every demonstration of respect and attention. 

VISIT TO THE TOMB~OF WASHINGTON. 

"The solemn and imposing scene of the visit of La- 
fayette to the tomb of Washington, took place on Sun- 
day the 17th inst. About one o'clock, the General left 
the steam boat Petersburg at anchor, off Mount Vernon, 
and was received into a barge manned and steered by 
Captains of vessels from Alexandria, who had hand- 
somely volunteered their services for this interesting oc- 
casion. He was accompanied in the barge by his fami- 
ly and suite, and Mr. Secretary Calhoun. On reaching 
the shore, he was received by Mr. Lewis, the Nephew 
of Washington, and by the gentlemen of the family of 
Judge Washington, (the Judge himself being absent on 
official duties,) and conducted to the ancient mansion, 
where, forty years ago, he took the last leave of his 
" Hero, his friend, and our country's preserver." After 
remaining a few minutes in the house, the General pro- 
ceeded to the vault supported by Mr. Lewis and the 
gentlemen, relatives of the Judge, and accompanied by 
G. W. Lafayette, and G. W. Custis, the children of 
Mount Vernon both having shared the paterntal care of 
25 



194 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

the great Chief. Mr. Castig wore the ring suspended 
from a Cincinnati ribbon. Arrived at the sepulchre, al- 
ter a pause, Mr. Custis addressed the General as fol- 
lows : 

"Last of the Generals of the army of independence! 
at this awful and impressive moment, when, forgetting 
the splendor of a triumph greater than Roman Consul 
ever had, you bend with reverence over the remains of 
Washington, the child of Mount Vernon presents you 
with this token, containing the hair of/i/m, whom, while 
living, you loved, and to whose honored grave you now 
pay the manly and affecting tribute of a patriot's and a 
soldier's tear. 

The ring has ever been an emblem of the union of 
hearts, from the earliest ages of the world, and this will 
unite the affections of all the Americans, to the person 
and posterity of Lafayette now and hereafter ; and when 
your decendants of a distant day shall behold this valu- 
ed relic, it will remind them of the heroic virtues of 
their illustrious sire, who received it, not in the palaces 
of princes or amid the pomp and vanities of life, but at 
the laurelled grave of Washington. Do you ask — 

Is this the Mausoleum, befitting the ashes of a Marcus 
Aurelius, or the good Antoninus ? I tell you, that the 
Father of his country lies buried in the hearts of his 
countrymen, and in those of the brave, the good, the 
free, of all ages and nations. Do you seek for the tab- 
lets, which are to convey his fame to immortality ? — 
They have long been written in the freedom and hap- 
piness of his country. These are* the monumental tro- 
phies of Washington the Great,and will endure when the 
proudest works of art have " dissolved, and left not a 
wreck behind." 

Venerable man ! Will you never tire in the cause of 
freedom and human happiness ? Is it not time that you 
should rest from your generous labors, and repose on the 
bosom of a country which delights to love and honor you, 
and will teach her children's children to bless your name 
and memory? Sure where liberty dwells, there must 
fee the country of Lafayette ! 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



195 



Our fathers witnessed the dawn of your glory, par- 
took of its meridian splendor, and oh ! let their children 
enjoy the benign radiance of your setting sun ; and when 
it shall sink in the horizon of nature, here, here with pi- 
ous duty, we will form your sepulchre, and united in 
death, as in life, by the side of the Great Chief, you 
will rest in peace, till the last trump awakes the slum- 
bering world, and calls your virtues to their great re- 
ward. 

The joyous shouts of millions of freemen hailed your 
returned foot-print on our sands. The arms of millions 
are opened wide to hug you to their grateful hearts, and 
the prayers of millions ascend to the throne of Almighty 
Power, and implore that the choicest blessings of Hea- 
ven will cheer the latter days of Lafayette." 

The General having received the ring, pressed it to his 
bosom, and replied : 

" The feelings which, at this awful moment, oppress 
my heart, do not leave me the power of utterance. I 
Can only thank you, my dear Custis, for your precious 
gift, and pay a silent homage to the tomb of the greatest 
and best of men, my paternal friend!" 

"The ring is of solid gold, and perfectly plain but 
neat workmanship. On the surface, the following in- 
scription is engraved. 

" LAFAYETTE. 
1777 

Pro novi orbis libertate 

decertabat Juvenis. 

Invenit, 

1824." 

The General affectionately embraced the donor, and 
the other three gentlemen, and gazing intently on the 
receptacle of departed greatness, fervently pressed his 
lips to the door of the vault, while tears filled the fur- 
rows in the veteran's cheeks. The key was now appli- 
ed to the lock — the door flew open, and discovered the 



196 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

coffins, strewed with flowers and evergreens. The Gen- 
eral descended the steps, and kissed the leaden cells 
which contained the ashes of the great Chief and his 
venerable consort, and then retired in an excess of feel- 
ing which language is too poor to describe. 

After partaking of refreshments at the house, and 
making a slight tour in the grounds, the General return- 
ed to the shore. Previous tore-embarkation, Mr. Custis 
presented the Cincinnati ribbon which had borne the 
ring to the vault, to Major Ewell, a veteran of the rev- 
olution, requesting him to take a part of it, and divide 
the remainder among the young men present, which was 
done, and a generous struggle ensued for the smallest 
portion of it. 

The same barge conveyed the General to the Peters- 
burg, the marine band playing as before a strain of 
solemn music. The vessel immediately proceeded on 
her voyage to Yorktown. 

Not a soul intruded upon the privacy of the visit to 
the Tomb ; nothing occurred to disturb its reverential 
solemnity. The old oaks which grow around the sep- 
ulchre, touched with the mellowed lustre of autumu, ap- 
peared rich and ripe, as the autumnal honors of Lafay- 
ette. Not a murmur was heard, save the strains of 
solemn music, and the deep and measured sound of artil- 
lery, which awoke the echoes around the hallowed 
heights of Mount Vernon. 

'Tis done ! the greatest, the most affecting scene of 
the grand drama has closed, and the pilgrim who now 
repairs to the Tomb of the father of his country, will 
find its laurels moistened by the tear of Lafayette." 

It has been asserted with the utmost gravity and con- 
fidence, (and I believe has never been contradicted,) 
that on the passage of the General to York, an Eagle, 
the bird of Jove, "flew from the blulT, about two miles 
below Alexandria, and hovered over the steam boat 
Petersburg, which the General was onboard of. It fol- 
lowed him to Mount Vernon ; and, we are told continu- 
ed flying over the tomb of Washington, to which the 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 197 

General was devoting his soul with the holy feelings of 
grief. It seemed to have an inspiration in its actions. It 
would not quit the scene. It displayed those feelings 
which would seem to indicate that it was a special mes- 
senger, sent to welcome our illustrious guest on his visit 
to the sacred repose of the first of men — his friend and 
the friend of mankind, After the General had fulfilled 
his pious devotions, this bird, representing the gratitude 
of the nation, and emblematically the spirit of Washing- 
ton, took its final departure from that spot which con- 
tains the relics of Lafayette's dear companion.'" 

CELEBRATION AT YORKTOWN. 

On Tuesday, the 19th of October, the anniversary of 
the battle of Yorktown was celebrated in the most 
brilliant manner. The following sketch from a Rich- 
mond paper will afford the reader some idea of the no- 
ble scene. 

"The village itself, though small, is in respectable 
trim. The water view is peculiarly fine. It is one 
large beautiful stretch of water above and below. The 
eye takes in several miles above. Nearly opposite to 
the town, is Gloucester town, to which Cornwallis, when 
pressed by the siege, attempted in vain to fly ; a storm 
drove his boats back. Below, you catch a view of the 
mouth of York river, about twelve miles, and a glimpse 
of the bay beyond it. The river itself is enlivened b} r 
several steam-boats ; among others, the fine U. S. frig- 
ate, from Baltimore, with several passengers ; and 
smaller vessels, bringing visiters from various rivers. 
The banks of the river at Yorktown, are bold, lofty, and 
commanding in their view. The town itself, and the 
country around it for a short distance, is plain, until it 
rises into small hills. A few yards beyond the edge of 
the town to the East, you see the nearest British lines ; 
the mounds of the entrenchments, and the ditch : the 
mound, considerably sunk from the tread of cattle, and 
the washing of the rains ; and the ditch rapidly filling 
up. Near a mile to the east of the lines, the committee 



198 TOUR OT LAFAYETTE. 

have erected three temporary works : a triumphal arch 
at the Rock Redoubt, which Hamilton ami Lafayette 
stormed, and where General Taylor, at the head oi' the 
troops, is to address Lafayette. An obelisk at the scite 
of the Redoubt, which Viominil stormed, say a quarter 
of a mile apart ; and farther to the south, another obe- 
lisk on the famous spot where General O'Hara offered 
to deliver up his sword to General Washington. And 
in this direction, the soldiers tents are erected, the field 
where the troops are to be reviewed ; and the stands 
erected for the accommodation of the ladies, to see the 
review. 

These, with the transparencies to be exhibited, the 
beautiful and lofty marquee, with its centre and its three 
wings, (two to the right and left of the circular centre, 
and the other running towards the river,) sent from 
Richmond, and erected on a commanding spot near the 
bank of the river, in front of General Lafayette's head 
quarters ; the tent of Washington, has been prepared 
by the committee of arrangements to embellish the 
scene. 

Forty three years ago, the town presented the spec- 
tacle of a subdued enemy, marching out, with hearts 
dejected, and spirits humbled. AW 1 , what a sight 
bursts upon the view ! A free people, teeming with 
jife, and the fullness of joy, were arrayed on the heights, 
or met on the beach, by the gallant stranger, who had 
risked his all in their cause. Early in the forenoon, the 
Norfolk and Baltimore steam boat Virginia went down 
to the spit, about 12 miles, to receive the distinguished 
guest. Messrs. R. Basset, B. W. Leigh, General 
Brodnax, Mr. Robert G. Scott, and a number of ladies, 
accompanied by the chief justice, Judge Brooke, Cols. 
McLane and Fish, went in her. He was in the Pe- 
tersburg, which conveyed him from Alexandria, accom- 
panied by Cols. Harvie and Peyton, the governor's aids. 

As soon as the boats approached, Colonels Bassett 
and Jones, put offin a barge, and conveyed the illustrious 
stranger to the Virginia. He was then introduced to- 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 199 

.the three members of the committer when Mr. Leigh 
delivered an eloquent address, in the most touching 
manner. 

General Lafayette answered, (in substance,) I assure 
you, sir, it gives me the highest pleasure to revisit yhv 
ginia. The operations of the campaign to which you 
have alluded, and all the success with which thej' were 
attended, were not owing to any merit of the General 
who was honored with the chief command, but to the 
zealous support of the militia of the state, and of all or- 
ders of men. I pray you to tell your fellow citizens that 
I shall be yet happier to meet them, than they are to 
meet me ; and that it is particularly gratifying to meet 
them at Yorktown. Your affectionate remembrance of 
me is most gratifying to my heart. I thank you ; I 
thank you all. 

The General's attention to Mr. Leigh's address was 
profound. His countenance dignified, and deeply inter- 
esting, reflecting the various sentiments, as they were 
expressed by the orator. But when Mr. Leigh came to 
" the boy cannot escape me," there was an archness in 
his face which defies all description. As soon as he con- 
cluded, the band struck up Washington's march, and 
the General was introduced to the guests. The water 
view then became eminently picturesque. The beach 
and heights covered with anxious spectators, and the 
water prospect both near and distant, filled a variety of 
vessels, with streamers, flying. Down the river appear- 
ed six steam boats, with their majestic fronts, and their 
columns of smoke breaking gradually to the view. As 
they approached, the attention of the spectators was 
solemn and profound. The Governor and council were 
stationed on the temporary wharf (erected for the re- 
ception) in two lines, the judiciary, the revolutionary 
patriots, officers of the army, invited guests, and citizens, 
Were arranged in the same manner ; leaving an avenue 
open to the barouche, which was destined to receive 
Jiim. 



200 TOUR OP LAFAYET1E. 

A barge put off for the venerable hero, and soou 
returned with him with his hat off, and his countenance 
exhibiting the most intense interest. After landing- 
with his companions, he was introduced to the Gover- 
nor, who delivered the following excellent address : — 

" Gen. Lafayette : 

Sir, — On behalf of the people of Virginia, I tender to 
you a most cordial and hearty welcome to our state. 

In you, we recognize the early, the steadfast, the con- 
sistent friend. Whilst the United States in general, owe 
you so large a debt of gratitude, for the liberal tender 
of your purse, your person, and your blood, in their be- 
half, the state of Virginia is, if possible, still more deeply 
indebted to you. You were her defender in the hour 
of her greatest trial. At the age of twenty four years, 
with an army greatly inferior in numbers, and still more 
in equipments and discipline, you conducted your military 
movements with so much judgment, that the ablest offi- 
cer of the British army could never obtain the slightest 
advantage over you ; and whilst that officer spent his 
time in harrassing our distressed state, you manoeuvred 
before him with the most unceasing caution and vigi- 
lance, with a steady eye to that grand result, which 
brought the war to a crisis on the plains of York. 

Forty three years from that period, we have the 
happiness to find you in our couutry, the vast improve- 
ment of which is the most conclusive evidence of the 
correctness of the principles for which you contended 
by the side of Washington. 

I will conclude, sir, by the expression of a sentiment 
which I believe to be strictly true ; it is, that no man 
at any time, has ever received the effusions of a nation's 
feelings, which have come so directly from the heart." 

The General advanced, and, grasping the Governors 
hand, said, " I am gratified, sir, most highly gratified, by 
the reception you have given me on the part of the state 
of Virginia. The happy conduct, and the successful ter- 
mination of the decisive campaign, in which you have the 
goodness to ascribe to me so large a part, were attribu- 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 201 

table, much more to the constituted authorities and peo- 
ple of Virginia, than to the general who was honored 
with the chief military command. I have the liveliest 
recollection of all the scenes of my services in this state, 
and of all the men with whoni it was my happiness and 
honor to serve ; and happy as I was to assist and wit- 
ness the accomplishment of American liberty and inde- 
pendence, I have been yet happier in the assurance that 
the blessings which have flowed from that great event, 
have exceeded the fondest and most sanguine expecta- 
tions." 

On the morning of Tuesday, the procession formed 
from the triumphal arch, erected on the ruins of the 
redoubt, about six yards distant from the bank of the 
river, The interesting ceremony of the reception of 
the General at this place, was very pathetic. Assisted 
by the Governor and his aids, and the members of the 
committee of arrangements, he advanced up the hillock, 
which leads to the redoubt. A large and respectable 
column of officers and citizens followed. When the 
General arrived at the arch, General Taylor advanced, 
saluted him with profound respect, and pronounced the 
following elegant and eloquent address : — 

" General, — On behalf of my comrades, I bid you wel- 
come. They come to greet you with no pageantry, in- 
tended to surprise by its novelty, or dazzle by its splen- 
dor, but they bring you, General, an offering, which 
wealth could not purchase, nor power constrain. On 
this day, associated with so many thrilling recollections, 
on this spot, consecrated by successful valor, they come 
to offer you this willing homage of their hearts. 

Judge, General, of their feelings at this moment, by 
your own. Every thing around them speaks alike to 
their senses and sensibilities. These plains, where the 
peaceful ploughshare has not yet effaced the traces of 
military operations ; these half-decayed ramparts, this 
ruined village, in which the bombs' havoc is still every 
20 ' 



202 TOUR OF LA FAYETTF. 

where visible, tell us of past warfare ; and remind us of 
that long, arduous, and doubtful struggle, on the issue of 
which depended the emancipation of our country. 

On yonder hillock, the last scene of blood was closed 
by the surrender of nn army ; and the liberty of cur 
nation permanently secured. With what resistless elo- 
quence does it persuade our gratitude and admiration for 
the gallant heroes, to whose noble exertions we owe 
the countless blessings which our free institutions have 
conferred upon us ? 

The spot on which we stand, was once a redoubt, oc- 
cupied by our enemy. With how rapid a pencil does 
imagination present the blooming chieftain, by whom it 
was rescued from his grasp ! Can we be here, and for- 
get, that, superior to the prejudices which then enchain- 
ed even noble minds, he perceived in the first and al- 
most hopeless struggles of a distant and obscure colony, 
the movement of that moral power, which was destined 
to give a new direction and character to political institu- 
tions, and to improve human happiness ? Can we for- 
get, that, deaf to the solicitations of power, of rank, and 
of pleasure, with a noble prodigality, he gave to our 
country his sword, his treasure, and the influence of his 
example ?"' 

And when in the aged warrior who stands before us 
we recognize that youthful chieftain, with what rapidity 
does memory retrace the incidents of his eventful life ? 
With what pleasure do we see his manhood realize the 
promise of his youth? In Senates or in Camps, in the 
palaces of Kings, or in their dungeons, we behold the 
same erect and manly spirit. At one time tempering 
the licentiousness of popular feeling ; at another res- 
training the extravagance of power; and always re- 
gardless of every thing but the great object of his life, 
the moral and political improvement of mankind. 

General — In the brightest days of antiquity, no arti- 
ficial stimulous of rank or power, or wealth was required 
to excite noble minds to acts of generous daring. A 
wreath of laurel or of oak was at once the proof and 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. ^Oi 

the reward of illustrious merit. For this, statesmen 
meditated, warriors bled, and eloquence soared to its 
sublimes! hejghts. The prize was invaluable ; for, it 
was won only by merit. It detracted, however, some- 
what from its worth, that it was conferred by the par- 
tiality of compatriots, and in the ferver of admiration in- 
spired by recent success. 

Your life, General, illustrious throughout, in this also 
is distinguished. — Time which dims the lustre of ordina- 
ry merit, has rendered yours more brilliant. After a 
lapse of near half a century, your triumph is decreed by 
the sons of those who witnessed your exploits. 

Deign, then General, to accept the simple but expres- 
sive token of their gratilude and admiration. Suffer 
their leader to place upon your veteran brow the only 
crown it would not disdain to wear, the blended em- 
blems of civil worth and martial prowess. It will not 
pain you, General, to perceive some scattered sprigs of 
melancholy Cypress intermingled with the blended 
leaves of laurel and oak. Your heart would turn from 
us with generous indignation, if on an occasion like this, 
amid the joyous acclamations which greet you every 
where, were heard no sighs of grateful recollection for 
those gallant men who shared your battles, but do not, 
cannot share your triumph. The wreath which our 
gratitude has woven to testify our love for you, will lose 
nothing of its fragrance or its verdure, though time hang 
upon its leaves some tears of pious recollection of the 
friends of your early youth ; in war, the avenger, in 
peace, the father of his country. 

In behalf then, of all the chivalry of Virginia : on this 
redoubt, which his valour wrested from the enemy at 
the point of the bayonet ; I place on the head of Major 
General Lafayette this wreath of double triumph — 
won by numerous and illustrious acts of martial prowess, 
and by a life devoted to the happiness of the human race. 
In their names, I proclaim him alike victorious in arms 
and acts of civil polity. In bannered fields, a hero — in 
civil life the benefactor of mankind." 



204 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

Lafayette was deeply affected. There was a soleirm 
earnestness in his manner, a touching; sensibility in his 
whole countenance, which most deeply impressed every 
observer. Many wept — all were moved. When Gen- 
eral T. had closed his address, he was about to fix the 
civic wreath upon the General's head. But the consider- 
ate veteran, always himself, always attentive to the slight- 
est proprieties of word and action, caught the hovering 
wreath as it approached his brow, and respectfully bow- 
ing dropped it to his side, when he thus replied : 

" I most cordially thank you, my dear General, and 
your companions in arms, for your affectionate welcome, 
your kind recollectious, and the flattering expressions of 
your friendship. Happy \ am to receive them on these 
already ancient lines, where the united arms of America 
and France have been gloriously engaged in a holy alli- 
ance, to support the rights of American independence, 
and the sacred principle of the sovereignty of the peo- 
ple. Happy also, to be so welcomed on the particular 
spot where my dear light infantry comrades acquired one 
of their honorable claims to public love and esteem. You 
know, sir, that in this business of storming redoubts, with 
unloaded arms, and fixed bayonets, the merit of the deed 
is in the soldiers who execute it, and to each of them. 1 
am anxious to acknowledge their equal share of honor. 
Let me, however, with affection and gratitude, pay a 
special tribute to the name of Hamilton, who commanded 
the attack, to the three field officers who seconded 
him, Gim-at, Laurens, and Fish, the only surviving one, 
my friend now near me- In their name, my dear Gene- 
ral, in the name of the light infantry, those we have lost, 
as well as those who survive, and only in common with 
them, I accept the crown with which you are pleased to 
honor us, and I offer you the return of the most grateful 
acknowledgments." 

When he had closed, he gave a new proof of the ra- 
pidity of his conceptions, the generosity of his soul, the 
uniform modesty of his character. The very moment, he 
concluded, (never having been prepared for such a 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 205 

scene, never having seen the address, never having sus- 
pected the presentation of the wreath, he turned 
round, and drew Col. Fish to the front. " Here," he 
exclaimed, " half of this wreath belongs to you." " No 
sir, it is all your own." " Then," said Lafayette, put- 
ting it into Colonel F's hand, " take it, and preserve it as 
our common property.' 1 '' 

On the introduction of Colonel William J. Lewis, at 
the tent of Washington, to the General, he pronounced 
the following excellent address : — 

" General Lafayette, 

" The sons of the mountains join most cordially their 
low land brethren, in welcoming your return to this 
country ; they are the more delighted at this particular 
period, because, after an absence of about forty years, 
you will now be a witness of the happy effects of self 
government, founded on the natural rights of man ; 
rights, which you so nobly contributed to establish. Little 
did you think, when, in youthful age, you voluntarily put 
your life in your hand, and crossed the stormy billows of 
the deep to fight and bleed for the independence of 
America, that the results would have been so wonderful. 
At that period, we were only a handful of people ; /or 
in every thing of military import, except an invincible • 
love and attachment for liberty, we fought, and thanks 
to Lafayette, and his native nation, we conquered ! Now 
we see the result : we have nearly, by the offspring of 
our own loins, increased to more than 10,000,000 of 
people, cleared the immeasurable forests of savages, and 
wild beasts, and in their places are cultivating rich fields, 
building villages, towns, and cities : our commerce is 
spread over every sea, and our navy rides triumphant on 
the ocean. Such are the effects of free government, 
founded on equal rights : supported by wise and merci- 
ful laws, faithfully executed ! There is but one alloy to 
our pleasure of meeting you ; we dread your return to 
Europe. The despots of that country envy your in- 
creasing glory, founded on virtue which they cannot imi- 
tate, and their political fears may again incarcerate you 



^06 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE, 

in the grated walls of a dungeon ! Stay then with us„ 
Lafayette ; stay with us : here in every house you will 
find a home, and in every heart a friend : we will with 
filial affection, rock with gentleness the cradle of your 
declining age ; and when it shall please the God of uni- 
versal nature to call you to himself, crowned with the 
blessings of, at least, one free and mighty nation, we will 
then with holy devotion, bury your bones by the side of 
your adopted and immortal father, and moisten your 
tomb with the tears of love and gratitude.'* 

(Signed) WILLIAM J. LEWIS, 

in behalf of himself, and other sons of the mountains. 

The costnme and whole appearance of Colonel Lewis, 
were striking and interesting. He had on the mountain 
dress. On the conclusion of the address, the General 
grasped him with both hands, and in the most touching- 
manner, begged him to convey to his mountain friends 
his most affectionate acknowledgments for this testimony 
of their kindness. He recounted the services which 
their gallantry had formerly rendered him. He dwelt 
with delight upon the interest they now manifested in 
his happiness. 

The whole scene was strongly marked by the moral 
sublime. This ceremony being over, the grand review 
commenced. Lafayette stood near the arch, and the 
volunteer companies, and the United States troops passed 
him in regular succession, with flags flying, and music 
floating in the air. The troops then formed themselves 
again in line. He was carried to the obelisk, situated on 
the spot where Viominel had stormed the second re- 
doubt. The review over, and Lafayette having seen, 
and been seen, by all the troops, he mounted his ba- 
rouche, in company with the Governor, and was followed 
by the other carriages. The whole body of military 
and citizens then moved to the field, near to which the 
British troops had grounded their arms in '81. Between 
them and the amphitheatre, where at least 1000 ladies 
sat, the barouche passed on near to the ladies, who con„ 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 207 

tinued to wave their white handkerchiefs as he slowly 
moved on. " Ladies, receive my warm thanks for your 
kind welcome," was constantly upon his lips. 

The whole scene defies description. Here were the 
fields, which, forty three years ago, had witnessed the 
tread of a conquered enemy. A thousand associations 
of this description rushed upon the mind. Now, filled 
with an animated and joyous throng of from ten to fifteen 
thousand persons. 

Lafayette was aftewards escorted by all the troops, 
to his quarters, where, with an overflowing number of 
guests he sat down to the table at 5 o'clock. The large 
marquee was nearly filled with guests. A circular ta- 
ble ran around the centre ; two parallel rows of tables 
extended through each of the wings. General Taylor 
presided, on the right of whom sat General Lafayette. — 
The marquee was splendidly illuminated, and adorned 
with two handsome transparencies ; and it may be a 
matter of curiosity to some persons to learn that the 
lights set before General Lafayette, were fine wax can- 
dles which had been discovered among; the United States 
stores by Col. Eustis, and ascertained to have been 
found among the stores of Lord Cornwallis, captured 
43 years before at Yorktown. 

After dinner, about forty patriotic sentiments were giv- 
en ; among which were the following. By Judge R. 
E.Parker. The French Chevalier — Sans peur ct sans 
reproche* By General Macomb — The ladies of Vir- 
ginia — Like her free and independent citizen soldiers, 
will receive every where the Hero of Yorktown, with 
presented arms. At nine o'clock, the company rose from 
the table, and retied to the open fields cast of the 
town, to witness the splendid exhibition of fire Avorh.s, 
prepared at the public expense for the general gratifi- 
cation. General Lafayette was present, seated on one 
of the old British embankments. The arches, obelisks, 
transparencies, and paintings almost defy description. — 
The triumphal civic arch at Yorktown, was erected on 

^Without fear, and without reproach. 



^0& TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

the point in honor of Lafayette, at the situation, which 
he stormed, and succeeded in taking on the 19th of Oc- 
tober, 1781. 

The whole building was surmounted by an entablature, 
forty feet from the ground, supported by four pilasters 
of the tuscan order, and an attic flight of steps in the 
centre- Upon which rested an Eagle of five or six feet 
in height supporting a large civic wreath after the man- 
ner of the one at St. Stephen's Chapel at Rome, the 
eagle Cut out of Avood and painted in imitation of white 
marble. The whole front painted of a light brown stone 
colour. The pilasters, entablature, figures, and other 
ornaments were painted to resembled white marble. — 
The harmony and contrast thus produced formed a 
pleasing effect on the eye. The uncommon beauty of 
the scenery was beyond description, forming a grand 
whole — rarely or seldom ever to be met with. 

This arch was forty feet in front, containing a base- 
ment story ofrusiicated works. The arch rising to the 
height of twenty-lour feet, the abutments of the arch or- 
namented with the figures of fame and victory, over the 
key stones, which were thirteen in number, on which 
was placed a star on each, to denote the thirteen orig- 
inal states. The Wings on each side had the represen- 
tation of Niches. Those in the basement story of the 
Fasces (an emblem of unity) with Helmets, Battle axes, 
and other implements of war. Those above contained 
statues of liberty, trampling on tyranny, and the figure 
of justice, over which were placed the names of Laurens 
and Hamilton, (aids to Lafayette at the time of his 
storming the redoubt.) 

There were also two obelisks ; one erected on the 
spot which was stormed by Viominel the other where 
the sword of Cornwallis was delivered up. They were 
twenty six feet in height, and surmounted by a Fasces, 
and Battle axe, often feet, and painted to resemble stone. 
The transparencies and paintings are represented as ex- 
ceedingly well executed, and produced a fine effect. 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. £09 

The following anecdote, during the siege of Yorktown, 
fnay be appropriately added in this place. 

While the fleet of Count dc Grassc was blockading the 
harbor to prevent supplies from reaching the British, the 
Count received positive orders from France to proceed 
to St. Domingo, at a certain date. General Washington, 
well knowing, that upon the fleet depended his chance of 
success, went personally on board the Ville de Paris, the 
flag ship of De Grasse, and endeavored, by every 
means in his power, to delay his departure ; but in vain ; 
the Count showed his written orders, where it appeared, 
that the time had already elapsed. General Rocham- 
beau next went ; but with no better success. In this 
dilemma, the youthful, the virtuous, the great Lafayette 
determined to use his influence in behalf of his adopted 
country. " Remain," said he, " and I will bear you safe 
to the king : remain, and I will bear the brunt of his dis- 
pleasure." The Count at last consented ; the enemy's 
fleet was kept out ; the town surrendered ; and liberty 
was proclaimed to distressed America. 

Though the occurrences at Yorktown were mostly of a 
serious nature, there was, nevertheless, something of 
amusement mixed with them. On the night the Gene- 
ral arrived at Yorktown, it was proposed to him to walk 
out on the remains of the British ramparts, to enjoy a 

Kerspective vieAV of the illumination in camp, &c. Col. 
lcLane of Delaware, a rare old soldier of about seventy 
three, silently stole from the company, got first to the 
rampart, shouldered a cornstalk, and mounted guard. On 
the approach of the General and his party, they were 
challenged, in a bold and soldierlike manner ; and upon 
answering " friends," were ordered to advance, and give 
the countersign. Colonel Fish advanced, and gave, LA- 
FAYETTE ; but this would not do. " Sergeant of the 
guard, here ! quick !" was now called. What was to be 
done ? Colonel Fish again advanced, and recollecting the 
ever memorable countersigns of 1781, gave " Rocham- 
beau," " Paris," &c. " Pass on," was the* word. In a 
moment the joke was discovered, the old soldier grasped 
27 



210 



TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 



by the hand, when a hearty laugh ensued, which no one 
enjoyed more heartily than Lafayette. 

On the evening of Wednesday, about dark, he left 
York for the town of Williamsburg, which was illumina- 
ted for his reception, and he was received by its citizens 
with open arms It was his intention to spend Thurs- 
day at this celebrated spot, visit Green Spring the next 
day, and embark at James Town for Norfolk. 

The reception of the General at Norfolk, Richmond. 
Petersburg, Alexandria, and other places, was splendid 
beyond description. In all places, all hearts were open to 
receive him with affection, gratitude, and veneration. 

After participating of the hospitality and friendship of 
Mr. Jefferson at Monticello, and Mr. Madison at Mont- 
pelier ; and making a visit to Washington on the open- 
ing of the next Congress, it is believed he will visit South 
Carolina and New Orleans ; proceed up the Missisippi 
and Ohio rivers, to Pittsburg, making intermediate calls 
on his way. From thence cross to the Lake of Erie, 
and the western part of the state of New York ; view 
the falls of NIAGARA, &c. and return to the metropo- 
lis of Massachusetts in June, 1825. Probably after the 
commemoration of the battle of Bunker Hill, he will 
proceed on his eastern tour, and on his way visit the 
town of PORTLAND. 

It ought to have been observed on a previous page, 
that invitations were forwarded to the two venerable 
ex- Presidents, to be present at the Yorktown celebra- 
tion, but they declined ; one on account of illness and dis- 
tance, the other from obstacles which would not admit of 
a compliance, &c. 

He will remain in the United States to witness the 
enthusiasm of the people, on the next anniversary of the 
declaration of independence, and then, contrary to all our 
wishes, embark for France. But let us hope that cir- 
cumstances may change this lamented ultimatum,. 



TOUR OP LAFAYETTE. 211 

CONCLUDING REMARKS OF THE AUTHOR. 

Such has been the reception, with which General La- 
fayette has been greeted, by the citizens of the United 
States, after an absence of upwards of forty years. — 
What reflecting mind can have beheld the spectacle, 
without imagining its probable influence upon other coun- 
tries, as well as our own ? It might have been thought 
by some who have so often read the motto of, " Repub- 
lics are ungrateful," that^ after the independence of our 
country had been secured, and the first moments of en- 
thusiam at the conquest abated, the expressions of sen- 
sibility would have subsided, and that time would sober 
down our gratitude into indifference. Such, however, are 
not the reflections of true patriotism, sterling honor, or 
genuine glory ; but only those of the enemies of free- 
dom. The universal shout of joy, bursting from the 
hearts of ten millions of freemen, on the arrival of our 
illustrious guest, the defender of liberty and the rights 
of man in two hemispheres, stands as a monumental pledge 
that the independence he fought to achieve will not be 
speedily surrendered, or impaired. Wherever the 
Tour of this immortal patriot and civilian shall be read, 
foreigners must realize the value of those sacred princi- 
ples, which could call forth the expression of a nation's 
feelings, approbation and love, after an absence of nearly 
half a century. The Republics of South America, will 
duly appreciate the example ; and their citizens will 
be animated to fresh deeds of enterprise and valor. — 
And it will teach the leaders of Revolutions to be faith- 
ful in the cause of freedom. It would not surprise us, 
(notwithstanding the hypocritical cant, and unmeaning 
abuse, heaped upon our country by the periodical jour- 
nals in Europe, for our gratitude to Lafayette,) if by this, 
freedom should be again encouraged to rear her head, 
where Royalty and despotic power now triumph over 
the principles of justice and the rights of man ! 

How loathsome, how disgusting must the conduct of 
the Emperor of Austria appear in the eyes of the world, 
who could for three years, immure in a dungeon the 
General who now lives in the affections often millions of 



212 TOUR OF LAFAYETTE. 

freemen ! And how pitiful the insignificant persecu-^ 
tions of some few petty tyrants in France, towards the 
man who had rendered to that nation such important ser- 
vices, and at the moment too, when he was about to vis- 
it that country who had adopted him as one of her own 
sons ! 

While we behold in Europe an alliance, hypocritical- 
ly denominated holy, the ostensible object of which is, to 
forge chains for the very subjects it is bound to protect, we 
observe in this western hemisphere a real holy alliance 
of free states, extending the blessings of liberty to every 
citizen, protecting him in the possession of property, and 
all his natural and social rights. Contrasts like these, 
when fairly presented to the world, must possess a pow- 
erful influence in strengthening the cause of liberty wher- 
ever it exists. 

When the citizens of the United States were led to 
anticipate the arrival of this great man among us, they 
looked forward to the event with feelings of the strong- 
est enthusiasm. The participation in the glow of virtu- 
ous sentiment, was not limited to one city, to one state, 
or to one portion of our country ; it was universal. — 
He has been received with open arms. The aged war- 
rior has gone forth to welcome the companion of his 
toils, and the young have hailed him as the friend of 
their fathers. Wherever he has been, crowds have sa- 
luted him ; and the wisest and best of our citizens have 
pressed him to their bosoms. The only free nation on 
the globe has received with acclamation the generous 
foreigner, the adopted son, who so nobly, and so essen- 
tially contributed to make us free. The scene has re- 
sembled that related in history, as between Timoleon 
and the people of Corinth. It has kindled the brightest 
flame that ever warmed our citizens : it has revived the 
spirit of '71, and the patriotism which it kindled. Where 
our illustrious Guest once saw forests^ he now beholds 
cities ; and the fields he left covered with wood, now 
rise up to his view in a high state of cultivation, with all 
their embellishments. Such are the miricles produced 
by Liberty ! 




POETRY. 



The following poetic effusions have been selected from various 
periodical journals. The author has endeavored to cull the best 
from among the great number that have been published, 

&rrtbal of (Srfucral aafagette. 

SEE ! they furl the welcome sail, 
Freemen's shouts his ear assail, 
More than thrice three millions hail, 
Welcome Lafayette ! 

Hark ! along th' Atlantic shore, 
Wake, as never wak'd before, 
Shouts, and peals, and cannon's roar, 
See ! the friends are met ! 

Brother he and friends in arms ; 
Sharer once in their alarms, 
Now within a people's arms 
See their Lafayette ! 

E'er did pomp, or pride, or power 
Claim or boast so bright an hour ? 
Wore they e'er a laurel flower 
Hands so nobly set ? 

No, it's not a rabble rout ; 
No, it's not a hireling's shout ; 
Freemen's voices now speak out, 
" Welcome Lafayette !" 

Free.men speak in friendship's name ; 
This is freedom's full acclaim : 
Not a breast but feels the flame 
Of love for Lafayette. 






214 POBTRT, 

Who is he could boast he knew 
Er'ry heart to him was true ? 
Not a foe the natioa thraugh, 
Who but Lafayette ? 

Those who mount triumphal cars, 
Conquerors, and Kings, and Czars, 
Envy, hate, the triumph mars, 
Tears the laurels wet. 

Read the long historic page, 
See the Prince, the Hero Sage, 
Public shouts with private rage. 
Round them all have met. 

Who had thought to see again 
Him who won us many a plain 1 
Yet for us he dares the main, 
Bids the sails be set. 

Now he sees the Boston dome : 
Now he feels his heart at home, 
What were all thy triumphs, Rome. 
Now to Lafayette ! 

See o'er Bunker's honor'd height 
Hangs the wreath of red and white! 
Hangs at once anud the fight, 
Foes remembered yet. 

Welcome here our country's friend ! 
Welcome too till life shall end, 
When with our's your dust shall blend, 
When in death we meet : 

Then a nation's tears should fall ; 
Grateful hearts should spread your pall ; 
Honor'd, lov'd and wept by all 
Were our Lafayette. 

Hence our babee shall lisp his name, 
Hence our sons shall learn his fame, 
Future ages long proclaim 
Him remembered yet. 



FROM THE NEW YORK COMMERCIAL ADVERTISER. 

LAFAYETTE. 
O deep was the gloom on our sad land descending. 

And wild was the moan from the tempest's dread form 
While the heroes and sires of our country were bending 

Their souls to their God, and their brows to the storm 



POETRY. 21& 

Who bounds to the shore from the dark bosom'd ocean, 
In the sparkle and pride of his beauty and youth ? 

His ardent mind burning, his soul all devotion, 
To the high cause ofliberty, justice, and truth ? 

He joins the bold band, who with spirits undaunted, 

Strive to guard and to win, all man's bosom holds dear ; 

It is done ! they have triumphed ! and Heaven has granted 
Fair freedom to crown their majestic career. 

How lovely the land, where the bright sun is flinging 
The purple and gold from his throne in the west ! 

There millions of hearts in their gladness are singing, 
There finds the poor exile contentment and rest. 

The eagle thatrush'd on a torn, bloody pinion, 

And soar'd to the sky 'mid the clamors of fight, 
Now wings his proud way in untroubled dominion, 

While the nations all silently gaze on his flight. 

Who comes o'er the billow with head bent and hoary, 
With full throbbing heart, and with glistening eye ? 

Past years roll before him — the scene of his glory 
Fills his heart with emotion, deep, solemn, and high. 

Great man ! thy Iov'd name to the skies is ascending, 
A name whose remembrance n© time can destroy, 

While gladness and grief are within us contending, 
For all thou hast sufler'd, and all toe enjoy. 

We will rank thee with him, who was sent us by Heaven — 
Ye shall ?neet in our hearts, as in glory ye met : 

Spread, ye winds, the glad news ! to our wishes is given, 
The friend of our Washington, brave Lafayette ! 

WELCOME LAFAYETTE ! 
Welcome, Fayette ! 

To the land that was won 
In part by your valor, 

From slavery's chain — 
And that well we remember 
The deeds you have done, 
You shall feel when you tread 
On our green shores again. 
Our last sun shall set, 
Before we forget 
With Washington's name, 
Still to join Lafayette. 
Yes, the Hero who bled 

That our clime might be free. 
As dear as the blood of 
Our bosoms shall be. 



216 



POETRY . 

When the storm-clouds of war 
Gather'd black in the west, 
At the first shout of" Freedom !" 

That burst through the gloom ; 
He left the bright home 

Youth and beauty had blest, 
To league with our fathers, 
To share in their doom ! 
And when roll'd afar 
Was that tempest of war, 
And the eagle triumphant 
Soared proud o'er each star. 
He sought no reward, 

No advantage to find, 
But the sweet peace that virtue 

Imprints on the mind. 
Then, welcome, Fayette, 

And, while gratitude burns 
In hearts that have always 

Been faithful as free, 
While one recollection 

Of peril returns, 
In the mem'ry of millions 
Immortal shall be 

The hero and sage, 
Who, in youth and in age, 
Has been Liberty's champion 
Through life's ev'ry stage. 
Not a voice in the wide realm 

You lov'd will forget 
To join the loud chorus of 
Welcome Fayette ! 

Welcome veteran chief onGe more, 
Welcome to Columbia's shore — 
Sound thy trumpet, herald fame, 
Echo loud the hero's name, 
From Florida's remotest shore, 
To where th' Atlantic billows roar, 
Upon the ragged cliffs of Maine. 

Hail ! that hero, who, when War, 
Thunder'd vengeance from afar, 
And o'er this western hemisphere. 
Spread it? minions far and near ; 
Left his home without a sigh, 
To battle, for our liberty ; 
And here to conquer— or to die. 



POETRY, 217 

Welcome patriot chief once more, 
Welcome to Bostonia's shore. 
Let the trumpet's brazen throat 
Swell aloud its highest note ; 
Let the cannon echo high 
To the bright cerulean sky. 
This day of jubilee, and rest ; 
The welcome of a Nation's Guest. 

Hail ! him, Bostonians, who did save 
Thy houseless wanderers from despair, 
When elemental* war did rage, 
Threat'ning nor age, nor sex to spare, 
Oh ! guide him to that Temple's hall, 
Where cradled liberty did dwell ; 
There as the infant sweetly smiled, 
She pointed out a second Tell. 

She pointed out Columbia's chief, 
E'er yet Brittania's star had set ; 
And bade arise those glorious suns, 
A Washington and Lafayette, 
Who, with their high compeers in arms, 
With Otis, Henry, Lee, did plan 
That Magna Charta — freemen's boast, 
The rights and liberties of man. 

Welcome, hoary chief, once more, 
Welcome to fair freedom's shore. 
Hail him, ye mothers — virgins hail ! 
He is the dear adopted son 
Of him who sleeps in Vernon's vale— 
Your country's Father — Washington. M****. 

Cambridge, August, 1824. t 

FROM THE NEW YORK STATESMAN. 
LAFAYETTE. 

Hail, patriot, statesman, hero, sage ! 

Hail, freedom's friend ! hail, Gallia's son — 
Whose laurels greener grew in age, 

Plucked by the side of Washington ! 
Hail champion, in a holy cause, 

When hostile bands our shores be?et ; 
Whose valor bade th' oppressor pause — 

Hail, hoary warrior — Lafayette ! 

Forever welcome to the shore, 

A youthful chief, thy footsteps pressed ; 
And dauntless, want and peril bore, 

♦Alluding to relief given to the sufferers by a conflagration, during the rev- 
olution. 

28 



218 POETRY. 

Till « VENf, VICI,"* decked thy crest ! 
Forever welcome, great and good, 

The still small voice of gratitude 
Shall hless the name of— Lafayette. 

What monarch of despotic power, 

Who fain would crush the freeborn brave 
Whose glory, gilds a tottering tower, 

Himself a subject and a slave ; 
Would not, to view a nation's eyes ; 

With joyous drops unbidden wet, 
The pageantry of pride despise, 

And grasp the hand of — Lafayette. 

When'er the lips ofyouth inquire 

The path to virtue, honor, fame — 
To glory's temple proud aspire, 

While warmly glows the ardent flame ;— 
The voice of age shall fearless tell 

What perils oft its path beset, 
And prompt them onward by the spell 

That urged the soul of — Lafayette. 

And when the shades of death shall close 

Forever round thy hallowed head, 
We'll seek the place of thy repose, 

By filial love and duty led ; 
And hearts that beat in bosoms free, 

(Gems by unerring wisdom set,) 
The living monument shall be 

Of freedom's champion — Lafayette. 

BOSTON BARD. 

* I came and conquered. 

WELCOME TO LAFAYETTE. 
Welcome, welcome, Lafayette, 

Our country's early aid, 
Fair freedom's true unshaken friend, 

To thee be honour's paid. 

Welcome, welcome, Lafayette, 

Welcome to our happy land, 
Thou, who fought for liberty, 

Our gratitude command. 

Welcome, welcome, Lafayette, 

Defender of man's dearest rights, 
Participate the glorious prize, 

And realize our choice delights. 

Welcome, welcome, Lafayette, 



POETRTfe TRY> 219 

_ . . i j- i 'Ores again ; 
Or so ignobly d.e! urestee S_ 

The meanest heart tb amen 

II not by such high r 

Sees no rede "'" 

It dies — as bae beautiful little effusion, first made its appearance, 
On the b' Vsince, in the Connecticut Mirror. It travelled the 
the papers at that time, every where meeting a kind re- 
Therfand since the arrival of the illustrious individual who elicit- 
'taken a second tour through the country. Some of the 
Ou'and Philadelphia papers have ascribed this production to Dr 
al. This is a mistake. It was written by Mr. Brainard, the 
editor of th- Mirror,— to whose prolific muse the public are indebted 
for the many fine poetic effusions that appear in that paper.] 
TO THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE. 
We'll search the earth and search the sea, 
To cull a glorious wreath for thee ; 
And every field for freedom fought, 
And every mountain-height, where aught 
Of liberty can yet be found, 
Shall be our blooning harvest ground, 
Laurels in garlands hung upon 
Thermopylae and Marathon ; — 
On Bannockburn the thistle grows ; — 
On Runnymead the wild rose blows ; 
And on the banks of Boyne, its leaves 
Green Erin's shamrock wildly weaves. 
In France, in sunny France, we'll get 
The fleur-de-lys and mignonette^ 
From every consecrated spot, 
Where lies a raarfyr'd Hugenot : — 
And cull even here, from many a field, 

And many a rocky height, 
Bays which our v;les and mountains yield, 

Where men have met to fight 
For law, and Liberty, and ufk, 
And died in freedom's holy strife. 
Below Atlantic seas — below 

The waves of Erieand Champlain. 
The sea-grass and the corals grow 

In rostral trophies round the slain ; 
And we can add, to form thy crown, 
Some branches worthy thy renown. 
Long may the chaplet flourish bright, 
And borrow from tbe Heavens its light ! 
As with a cloud that circles round 
A star, when other stars are set, 
With glory shall thy brow be hound, 
With glory shall thy head be crowned, 
With glory-starlike cinctured yet : — 



220 frOETJtf 1 *- 

For air, and earth, and sky, and sea, ''-rest I 
Shall yield a glorious wreath to thee. 

PRESENTED BY THE CHILDREN OF 

Who were decorated with ribbons bearing the 
" Nous vous aimons, Lafayette." 
Welcome thou to freedom's clime, 
Glorious Hero! Chief sublime ! 
Garlands bright for thee are wreath'd, 
Vows of filial ardor breath'd, 
Veterans' cheeks with tears are wet, 

" NOUS VOUS AIMONS, LaFAYETTE." 

Monmouth's field is rich with bloom, 
Where thy warriors found their tomb ; 
YORKTO WN'S heights resound no more, 
Victor's shout, or cannon's roar ; 
Yet our hearts record their debt, 
" Nous vous aimons, Lafayette." 

Brandywine, whose current roll'd, 
Proud with blood of heroes bold, 
That our country's debt shall tell, 
That our gratitude shall swell ; 
Infant breasts thy wounds regret, 
" Nous vous aimons, Lafayette." 

Sires, who sleep in glory's bed, 
Sires, whose blood for us was shed, 
Taught us, when our knee we bend, 
With the prayer thy name to blend. 
Shall we e'er such charge forget ? 
No ! — " Nous yous aimons, Lafayette." 

When our blooming cheeks shall fade, 
Pale with time or sorrow's shade ; 
When our clustering tresses fair 
Frosts of wintry age shall wear ; 
E'en till memory's sun be set, 
" Nous vous aimons, Lafayette." 

IN THE TENT OF WASHINGTON. 

I will rest in the war-house, that shelter'd the form 
Of my hero, my friend, and his country's preserver — 

That guarded his care-stricken head from the storm — 
That caught the warm sighs of the patriot's fervor. 

I will count, by the threads that I find in its woof, 

The throbs, in his head and his heart that were beating, 

While his thoughts were, when midnight enshrouded its roof- 
Retrieving defeat, or a victory greeting. 



POETRY,^ 221 

Or so ignobly die ! fi of thfi soldierj and view 

The meanest heart th achieverae nts, unequall'd in story : 
It not by such high e§ of h ghaU fenew? 

Sees no rede; the real lruitl0n f g i ory . 
It dies — as bas^ „ IM 

On the b'" CHILDHOOD, 

Th^re pleading for the stav of Lafayette. 

\ ! wilt thou leave us, Warrior, say ? 
Ou* Wilt thou again that ocean brave, 
Where death so pftej^seeks his prey, 
And black destruction rolls his wave ? 

What if our clime inclement prove, 

And darkling clouds our sky deform ; 
The sun of friendship, truth, and love, 

Our Father's friend shall cheer and warm. 

'Tis true, rude winds around us blow, 

And tempests sweep our mountains rude; 
But LAFAYE i TE shall never know 

The winter of ingratitude. 

What shall we do ? How plead thy stay ? 

But, surely, thou wilt not depart ! 
Our little hands shall bar the way, 

And we will twine us round thy heart. 

We'll weave thee wreaths of beauteous flower*, 

And giid them with the rays of truth : 
Thou shalt not count the fleeting hours, 

Nor know but thou art still in youth. 

Nay, Warrior, more : — When life shall close, 

And time's eventful sands have run, 
We'll bear thee to a blest repose, 

Beside our Father,— WASHINGTON ! 

BOSTON BARD. 



The following ode by Mr. Mellen of this State, will be read with 
as much pleasure perhaps, as any that have preceded it. The au- 
thor commences with the following prose remarks. 

[" Amid all the congratulations and offerings which have been 
heaped upon General Lafayette since his landing, I have seen noth- 
ing like a regular ode of welcome, which might be considered as a 
direct and unequivocal tribute to himself. There have been songs, 
indeed, and lyrics, and poems — and beautiful poems too — elicited by 
this glorious occasion; but they have been rather general expres- 
sions of the national joy and gratitude, than a prompt and consecrat- 
ed offering of the heart to the individual hero. I have then thought 



222 poi - RY . 

that so it came from the heart, a poeti cre st { 
tending;, would not be unacceptable to ou. 

If to his own land I may seem to have be', 
say, that my sentiment is but the echo of the *-. 
and that I am free to believe, as I deem it frank . . 
proper, to confess, that I referred only to those wiw 
ette can teel no communion, and for whom, he is too nob 
minded a republican to have any other feeling than simp 
sion ; and such is my faith in the liberality and justness oi 
that should this humble aspiration chance to meet his eye o. 
tice, I believe he would be the last to be offended at the numi . 

THE AUTHOR^ 

<0Tre to Hafagette, 

On the occasion of his visit to this country, August, 1824. 

BY GRENVILLE MELLEN. 
I. 

Chief of the mighty heart ! all hail ! 

How art thou watted on ! 
Loud freedom thundering on the gale 

A nation's choral song ' 
Oh ! it is well to such as thee, 
Our world should bend its iron knee, 

To whom its thanks belong: 
What nobler homage hath it ku»wn, 
Than when it bows to worth alone ! 

II. 
Oh ! who hath seen an hour like thine, 

Great Patriot of our land ! 
When all the hearts of all the clime, 

Acknowledge thy command ! 
Foul were the traitor-spirit here, 
Would mock thee with an icy tear, 

Or with a nerveless hand — 
No, when we greet that bounding soulj 
Our own would feel its pulses roll ! 

III. 
Were not our fathers proud of thee, 

When thy bright years were young ! 
And love was left for victory 

When beauty round thee clung ! 
And shall the children thankless gaze 
Upon the Father of their days, 

Whose patriot soul was wrung, 
To win in such a bold defence, 
So splendid an inheritance ! 
IV. 
Oh ! may our land forget us — ere 

With such remembrance by, 
We should so soulless linger here. 



POETRY. 223 



Or so ignobly die ! 
The meanest heart that God has form'd 
If not by such high memories storm'd 

Sees no redemption nigh ; 
It dies — as basest things have died, 
On the black earth, to which it was allied. 

V. 
There is a virtue in thy fame, 

The charm of patriot eyes ; 
Out-glorying each less holy name 

In peerless sacrifice ! 
The home— the hope— the prayers— the tears, 
The ocean storm — the toil of years, 

A cold world's injuries ; 
Oh ! who could such a host forget, 
Save thy unbroken soul, Fayette ! 

VI. 
The Roman, when he sought the home 

For which his blood was given, 
Found still but hard imperial Rome, 

In his triumphal heaven — 
The hands and helms that battled on, 
Thro' all her stormy Marathon, 

From nobler Greece were driven — 
But oh ! the pride that crowns thy years, 
The triumph of a nation's tears ! 

VII. 
This is the monarchy of soul ! 
Above the power of kings, 
As high as those far lights that roll, 
Above Earth's dimmer things ! 
Such godlike spirit has no peers 
Among the wrecks of lowlier spheres — 

It floats on bolder wings ! 
Oh ! whose beside thy star shall shine — 
What splendor now can cope with thine ! 

ViII. 
There is a roar upon the wave, 

The thunder of our joy ; 
O'er thee, the ardent, young and brave, 

The gloryous patriot boy, 
Who sprang upon our iron shore, 
To bathe his virgin blade in gore ; 

To conquer and destroy. 
— Long years have pass'd above thy brow. 
Thou com'st the hoary warrior now ! 

IX. 
Young hands are clasp'd before thy form. 
In innocence and prayer ; 



224 POETRY. 

And age, that bore with thee the storm, 

Comes in his snowy hair ; ,* 
And lears are wept — and palms are wrungi 
And silence palsies the poor tongue — 

The soul alone is there ! 
Oh ! ask not why the tear-drop starts— 
What can contain the tide of hearts ! 

X. 
Thy way is thro' the joyous ranks 

Of millions of the free ; 
Oh ! how unlike those coward* Franks 

Who would dishonour thee ! 
The shrinking billows of thy shore 
As conscious of a curse they bore, 

V\ ent backward to the sea !| 
' But here, the tongues of all the waves .£ 

Roar ' welcome' o'er our foemen's graves ! * 

XI. 
Then welcome ! our immortal ~on, 

To freedom's heavenly ground, 
Fair hands — bright beings wave thee on, 

And shower their roses round ! 
Oh ! what had ancient conqueror's done, 
To grasp the triumph thou hast won, 

The glory thou hast found ! 
Go forth ! as great as thou art good ! 
Thine, is an Empire's gratitude ! 

The following is the address by Dr. Cutting, alluded to in a 
peceding page of this work. 

In life's gay morning, n the bloom of health, 
Flush'd by each grace of love and gift of wealth, 
When all that charms each sense, or hampers pride, 
Thy rank embellish'd or adorn'd thy bride ; 
'Twas then, Fayette, that thou dist dare the wave, 
To seek the banner of the free and brave ; 
Didst nobly succour our exhausted band — 

*The treatment of Lafayette, on his departure for America, from 
Havre, was dishonorable and outrageous, in the extreme. From all 
accounts, the mob, as well as the military, was intent upon expres- 
sing its malice, in the most ungenerous way, towards this noble re- 
publican. [See extracts from Foreign Journals of the day.] 

t It is said, that the tide was going out at the time of the embark- 
ation, and the Cadmus was obliged to haul off into the Roads ; La- 
fayette was consequently obliged to go on board by boat, leaving 
the landing place covered with a murmuring rabble, and a parcel 
of gens d'armes and. bayonets. 



POEfRY. 

Devoted guardians of a bleeding land ! 
O ! who, that thinks, can e'er forget that hour, 
When freedom, smitten by the arm of of Power — 
Pale, vanquish'd Jersey mighty hosts o'erran, 
And patriots trembled for the rights of man ! 
In times of terror, when the warm grew cold, 
The timid falter'd and the bad were bold — 
'Twas then we saw thee smile, and — firm as fate — 
March by the side of Washington the great ; 
Pupil magnanimous — imbibe his mind — 
Model of Heraes — hope ©f human kind ! 
'Twas then, our 'yaning grandeur to advance, 
Forgetting all the charms of beauteous France — 
'Twas then, disdaining pleasure, ease, delight, 
Thou bled'st with heroes in disastrous fight ; 
Thenceforth this truth didst gallantly display — 
True glory's fiat h is Liberty's highway. 
At York and Monmouth, in the sharpest fight, 
Green were thy laurels, as thy sword was bright, 
Till brave Cornwallis pil'd surrender'd arms, 
And Independence shone in placid charms. 
While time enrols th' achievements of thy youth, 
Romance and fiction yield the palm to truth : 
Well may the Lyric muse neglect her shells, 
Where history's pen the sweetest harp excels ! 
What deathless wreaths adorn thy wide career ! 
But freedom most exults to weave them here ; 
Freedom, whose genius swells Columbia's soul, 
Till grateful tears burst forth beyond control. 
Come, then, Fayette ! accept deserv'd applause, 
Who fought and bled in freedom's sacred cause- 
Take well-earn'd praiges, fervent and sublime, 
Burnish'd and brightn'd by the wings of time ; 
Take from the city of that hero's name, 
Dear to thy soul — emblazon'd with thy fame — 
Honors that grateful, lofty minds dilate, 
Ordain'd for deeds imperishably great ! 
Thrice happy land, where gratitude so pure, 
Makes virtue lov'd and liberty secure : 
Happy, where moral warmth delight imparts, 
That renders justice sweeter to our hearts : 
Where public spirit, luminous as free, 
Stirs millions, by one suffrage, to decree 
Immortal garlands— borrow'd from no throne — 
To cherish and exalt good deeds alone ! 
Noble »f nature, hail ! above high birth, 
Mirror and pTide of freemen o'er the earth : 
Consistent, steadfast, firm, in weal and woe 
Famous for virtue, spotless as the snow, 
29 



225 



i 

226 POETRY. 

In gloom of bondage, or in radiant sway, 
In cells ofdeath, or loft)' mansions gay- 
Hail friend of justice, probity and right, 
And equal laws — and universal light — 
No action of whose life, up glory's steep 
Makes virtue, blush, or generous spirits weep ! 
Live long ! enjoying to thy latest hour, 
The fair result of Freedom's liberal power. 
The fruit of her blest institutes unfold — 
To soothe the timid, and excite the bold : 
The gifts that Kings to servile men assign, 
Let parasites, obsequious, deem divine ; 
Fit baubles for the empty, mean, or proud — 
Gilt toys and tinsel, to deceive the crowd. 
But nought that despots grant, or can withhold, 
No title, badge, barbaric pearl or gold, 
Can ever gratify true glory's thirst, 
Lik^ grateful tears that from a nation burst — ■ 
Tribute that happy millions now impart, 
That swells spontaneous from each throbbing heart 
Where one lovM Benefactor ail commend, 
Exalt the patriot, and embrace the friend ! 



INTERESTING PARTICULARS RELATIVE TO LAFAY- 
ETTE'S FIRST EMBARKATION FOR THIS COUNTRY. 

Mr. De Bois Martin, a native of Saintonge in France, 
was commissioned as an officer of infantry by Louis XV. 
In 1770 he joined his regiment as captain, then station- 
ed at Port au Prince, in the Island of St. Domingo, and 
in 1778 returned to France on the business of his regi- 
ment. Having discharged his duty, and being then in 
Paris, he met with an elder brother who was intimate 
with the Marquis de Lafayette, and who advised him to 
accompany the latter to America. An agreement was 
soon after entered into with Mr. Silas Dean, then Amer- 
ican agent at Paris, (but not recognised by the French 
government) that the Marquis de Lafayette should serve 
as Major General, and all the other officers who might 
accompany the Marquis one rank higher than the one 
they held in the French army. The French govern- 
ment had been for a long time promising a vessel to Mr. 
Dean to convey these officers, but always put him off 
under some pretence or other. At length the Marquis 
determined to fit out a vessel at his own expense, and em- 
bark for America. He employed Mr. Du Bois Martin 
for that purpose, who went to Bordeaux and purchased 
a ship called « La Bonne Mere," of about 400 tons, and 
fitted her out for the intended voyage. The ship was 
was commanded by captain Lc Boursier. 

The Marquis and twelve or fifteen officers, including 
Mr, De Bois Martin, embarked at Bordeaux in the month 
of April, 1777, and after having resisted the barges sent 
by the Governor of Bordeaux to stop them, thev firsi 
went to Passage, in Spain, and subsequently arrived off 
the coast of South Carolina in the early part of June 1777. 
Here the ship was dismasted, and was forced to anchor ; 
the Marquis, with some officers, including Baron de 
Kalb, went on shore, leaving the ship to her fate. She, 
however, afterwards arrived safe at Charleston. The 



228 FURTHER PARTICULARS, &C. 

American government did not confirm the agreement 
made with Mr. Dean in Paris — the services of the most 
of the officers were not accepted, and they returned to 
France. Mr. De Bois Martin embarked at JNewbury- 
port. It is to be observed, that all the gentlemen who 
accompanied the Marquis were men of rank and fortune 
who did not come to America as adventurers, but sole- 
ly to serve the cause of liberty. Among them were Vis- 
count de Monroy, Baron de Kalb. Chevaliers De Fran- 
val, De Fayette, De Vri^ini, and a cousin of the Mar- 
quis. The object of stopping at Passage, was to con- 
sult the Count of Broglie, who advised the Marquis to 
depart as soon as possible. The Marquis' father-in-law, 
the Duke of Noallies, one of the most powerful noble- 
men in France, and who had perhaps more influence at 
court than any other man, severely reprimanded the 
Count of Broglie for having favoured " the Boy's es- 
cape." — To which it is said the Count replied — " I as- 
sure your Grace that 1 onlv wish I had one hundred such 
boys." 



CONTENTS. 



Pagb. 
jbiographic sketch of Lafayette* 5 

Notice of Auvergae (note) _____ g 

Memoir of Lafayette (Lady Morgan) - 13, 

Memoir of do from Biographique des Hommes Viv ants - 22 

Lafayette in the dungeon of Olmutz - 32 

Escape from Olmutz ______ 39 

Lafayette to Mr. Brannarn ------ 50 

Mayor of Boston to Lafayette ----- 51 

Lafayette's reply .-.____ 52 

Lafayette to Mr. Lloyd - ----- 53 

Arrangements for Lafayette's reception in Boston 54 

Embarkation from Havre _____ 55 

Landing at New York ______ 53 

Address of the Mayor of New York - 58 

Lafayette's reply _____ _ 60 

Address of the French residents in New York - 61 

Lafayette's answer - - - - 61 

Address of New York Historical Society 63 

General's Answer - - - - - - 64 

Address of the New York Bar - - - - 66 

General's answer ----- .67 

Visit to the Navy Yard, &c. &c. - - - 63 

Mayor of Philadelphia to Lafayette - - - 69 

Answer of Lafayette - - - - - 74 

Journey to Boston - - - - 70 

Anecdotes in Connecticut - - 75 

Arrival at New Haven - 77 

Mayors address _____ 73 

General's reply - - - - 79 

Journey continued _____ 80 

Reception at Providence - - 83 

Arrival at Governor Eustis', Roxbury 89 

'His reception in Boston, in 1784 - - - - 89 

Entry into Boston, 1824 - 94 

Address of the Mayor - 94 

Lafayette's Answer - - - - - 95 

Address of Governor Eustis - - - - 99 

Lafayette's reply - - - - - 100 

*It may be proper hereto observe, that the note, giving Dr. Thacher credit 

for this extract from bis Military Journal, was accidentally omitted in its pro- 
per place. — Ed. 



CONTENTS. 

Pagic. 

Visit to Harvard University ----- jqi 

Address of the President of the University - - 102 

Lafayette's reply - - - - -103 

Address of Judge Fay of Cambridge - 104 

Address of the Cincinnati of Massachusetts - - 105 

Reply of the General - ~ ML) " " ,()<:; 

Introduction of Citizens at the State House - - 107 

Second visit to Cambridge - - - - 108 

Visit to Charlestown and Bunker Hill - - - Jo8 

Address of the Inhabitants of Charlestown - - 110 

Answer of the General - - - - 11) 

Visit to the Navy Yard - - - - 112 

Visit to Faneuil Hall and South Boston - - - 113 

Reception at Medford - - - 114 

Address of the Selectmen and the General's reply - 115 

Military parade in Boston ... * \\q 

Invitation of the Selectmen of Portland ; * 118 

General's answer • - - - 118 

Departure from Boston - - - - 119 

Reception at Marblehead - - - 120 

Reception at Salem - - 122 

Judge Story's Address - - - 1 24 

General Larayette ; s reply - - - - 126 

Arrival and reception at Beverly - - 128 

Reception in Newburyport - - - 129 

Reception at Portsmonth - - - 132 

Address of the Selectmen - - - 133 

General's reply - - - - 134 

Address of Governor Morrill - - 135 

General's reply - - - - 136 

Return to Boston - - 137 

Second departure from Boston - - 138 

Arrival at Concord - - - 138 

Do. Worcester - - - 139 

Address of Judge Lincoln - - - - 111 

General's Reply - - - - - 142 

Reception at Hartford - - - 142 

Reception at Middletown - - 146 

Departure for New York - 147 

Second landing at do. - - - 148 

Dinner of the Cincinnati - - 148 

Presentation of a sword by Col. Muir - r 152 

General's reply &c. - - - - 153 

Dines with the French resident^ - - - 154 

Visit to Mr. Hurley - - 154 

Castle Garden Fete - - - 155 

Departure for Albany &c. - - - - 1 50 

Present of Lafayette to Capt. Allvn - - 160. 

Arrival at West Point 7 161 



CONTENTS. 

Page. 

Departure for.Newburgh* - 161 

Arrival at Newburghjj - - - - 162 

Arrival at PoughkeegM - 162 

Lafayette's account of Arnr Bjeason - - 162 

Visit to the seal of R. L. Livingston, E*q. - - 163 

Visit to the seat of E. P. Livingston, F,s<|. - - 164 

Reception at Catskill I - - . 165 

Arrival and Reception at jg - 166 

Interview of Revolutionaljjj Brans with Lafayette - 167 

Reception at fll - - - 168 

Visit to Troy ' - - - 170 

Visit to the female seminary - - 170 

Mrs. Pawling's address - - 170 

Departure for, and arrival at New York - - 172 

Dinner of Masons at Washington Hall - 172 

Departure from New York - - - 173 

Mr. Mumford's present of Franklin's cane - 173 

Arrival at Jersey city - - - - 173 

Reception at Elizabeth Town - - 173 

Address of the Mayor - - . 173 

Present of a gold medajfrom the Washington lodge - 175 

Arrival at Trenton - . - 175 

Address of the Mayor - ■ - - 175 

General's address to the Cincinnati ■ - - 177 

Visit to Joseph Buonaparte - - 177 

Entree into Philadelphia - - 178 

Address of the Mayor - - - - 180 

Answer of the General - - - - 181 

Address of the Cincinnati of Philadelphia - - 182 

Visit to the Navy Yard - - - - 183 

Ball at the Theatre - - - - - 184 

Arrival and Reception at Baltimore - - 186 

Reception at Washington - - 189 

Visit to the Tomb of Washington - - - 193 

Celebration at Yorktown - 197 

Anecdote at the siege of Yorktown - - 209 

Do. at the Anniversary of 1824 - 209 

Departure for Williamsburgh - - 210 

Probable visits to various places - - - 210 

Concluding Remarks - - - -211 

Poetic selections - ... 213 

Farther Particulars, &c, - 227 












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